Gate to tackle alley problem

Monday saw work on new gates being put in place across the entries between Pollock Drive and Glenfied Road.

Residents in the area had been plagued with antisocial behaviour and last February a young woman was seriously sexually assaulted in the area.

A huge amount of support was gained for the scheme following consultation with the residents whose homes back on to the alley.

The new gates mean the alleyway will be closed off and only those residents along the alley will have access.

Work is expected to be completed tomorrow with the an official opening on Monday.

It's hoped the scheme will prevent crime and antisocial behaviour.

Anne Hanlon chair of the Mourneview and Grey Estates Community Association welcomed the scheme, she said: "There has been a problem with antisocial behaviour in the area for some time.

"Thieves use the alley to get into homes, youths throw bottles into the road and when the police come they use the alley for a quick escape.

"These new gates will provide some much needed extra security for residents."

Councillor Carla Lockhart has worked to get the gates installed.

She said: "I had initially raised this issue with the Community Safety Partnership and the Housing Executive and I am delighted at the end result

“The problems surrounding this alleyway were brought to my attention 12 months ago when there were reports of a very serious attack on a young woman.

"I did at this time state my intention to raise the issue with the relevant bodies and to seek a measure that would help deter such happenings in the future.

“I believe this is a good news story for those who have been plagued with antisocial behaviour and vandalism in this location.

"The alleygating of this walkway will continue to allow residents access to the rear of their property and will deter and discourage such antisocial behaviour in the future."