What is alley gating?
The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 allows local authorities the power through a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to restrict public right of way over a highway to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB). Alley gating has been an effective tool to combat these issues with the installation of steel gates to the ends of back streets and alleyways. This provides a safe and clean environment for residents and dramatically reduces the threat of crime such as burglary and criminal damage by securing previously vulnerable areas.
Gating of a back street or alleyway is only half of the job. To ensure the success of a scheme cooperation from all residents is essential. Experience has shown that gating in areas where support is low will struggle.
You can view the Council’s alley gate policy here.
Who is eligible for alley gates?
A Gating Order will only be applied for where crime and anti-social behaviour levels are significant and are linked to the back street or alleyway in question. Other methods of crime reduction must have been considered beforehand for gating to be viewed as the most appropriate action. Practical considerations for the installation of the gates will also be considered before approval is given.
How do I apply for alley gates?
To register your interest in joining an alley gating scheme, an application form must be completed and returned to the Community Safety Team for consideration. Once you have registered your interest, an application form will be posted out to you along with a pre-paid envelope to return to Streetscene. Please note, by completing an application form does not guarantee it will be accepted.
All applications need to meet certain criteria- including evidence that outlines the crime levels and ASB issues within your area to further support your application. Applications are only accepted when funding is available and are reviewed annually; this normally takes place in March, but these periods will be advertised.
How do I request a key for an alley gate scheme?
All properties directly adjoining alleygate schemes will have been provided with a key when the gates were erected. However, if you require a key either because you have never had one, you have lost the original or would like an additional key you can request one by completing an online form. Replacement keys will be posted out to the address provided, please allow up to 10 working days to receive this.
How to report a fault with an alley gate?
If you are experiencing any problems or faults with your alley gates please let us know. You will be asked to provide the location and/or the scheme number (if known) and the details of the damage- the more precise information you provide the quicker your request can be actioned.
Please note if the alleygate lock is damaged/missing, a replacement can take 4-6 weeks to be delivered and attached to the gates. These timescales depend on the type of scheme as all our locks are made to order and are unique to one another to guarantee maximum security. Due to the effect Covid-19 has caused on our supplier, these timescales could be longer.
