CRIMINAL damage could be reduced in Thetford thanks to the installation of a set of alley gates.
CRIMINAL damage could be reduced in Thetford thanks to the installation of a set of alley gates.
An alleyway which links King Street with the rear of Well Street is regularly used by people as a public convenience and to cause criminal damage. This, in turn, creates problems for nearby shopkeepers.
The gates, which will be installed by Breckland Council's Pride in Breckland team, will block both ends of the alleyway, preventing people from using it between 6.30pm and 7.30am. Only shopkeepers, police and fire crews will have a key.
Richard Wills, Pride in Breckland co-ordinator said: “There have been reports of people using the alleyway as a public convenience and as an escape route after committing a criminal act so it is an ongoing issue that continually had to be policed.
“Not only does it take up police time, but it is a source of fear for residents.
“The Pride in Breckland team had a discussion and came up with some ideas and then worked with local shopkeepers to find a way of getting a gate put in.”
The gate was decided on after concerns were raised by the Thetford Task Force, the police and the town's residents association.
Consultation was then held between owners of the shops, police and people living nearby.
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