‘Ghetto gates’ will help us reclaim alleyways

Feb 4 2010 by Ian Hughes, North Wales Weekly News

RESIDENTS in Conwy may breathe a little easier as the council plans to section off alleyways and ginnels.

Gates across dark alleyways are an established form of crime prevention. Conwy County Council is now looking to roll these in to Llandudno Junction and Abergele.

The idea has already been a success throughout other areas of the UK and has been welcomed by Junction councillor Meirion Hughes.

“There are many alleyways in Llandudno Junction and these gateways could cut down anti-social behaviour.”

She added: “Alleyways make the job difficult for the police. Many people in my ward are in support of these gates and I have to support them.”

Proposals aim to reduce opportunities for crimes such as burglary and car theft. The council claims there are also a number of other benefits to ‘ghetto gates’. These include fewer opportunities for anti-social behaviour from youths and fewer problems with dog fouling from stray and unattended dogs.

It is also hoped gates will help recover areas that are seen as no-go areas after dark. Conwy Council also believe they will provide a sense of ownership over the rear of properties as well as a safe area for children to play in.

There have also been murmurs of unrest in the council over the plans. One Conwy town councillor who did not wish to be named claimed: “There is a lot of disquiet about this within Conwy Town Council, there just seems to be so many of these gates going up in the Junction. They must be costing a lot of money and what about access if there is a fire.”

Funding for the gates comes from the Home Office Crime Team Wales via a Crime Reduction and Anti Social Behaviour grant.

The proposed areas in Abergele are between Alexandra Road and Groes Llwyd. Those in Llandudno Junction include areas around McKinley Road, Queens Road and Maes Derw.

Before going ahead with the plan the council wish to consult with the public. Draft orders can be viewed on the Conwy County Council Website. Those with any concerns are urged to air them in writing to Phil Rafferty, Head of Regulatory Services, Civic Offices, Colwyn Bay, LL29 8AR, or by email to communitysafety@conwy.gov.uk. These should be made by midnight on February 16.