Alleyway which could be used to commit crime

Any rights of way that "facilitate" crimes such as drug dealing, robbery, burglary and arson will be closed to reduce opportunities for criminals

Manchester, Salford and Rochdale are among 11 successful local authorities who have been awarded the closure powers after providing the government with sufficient evidence from police and community groups.

These alleyways have given burglars easy access to the back of houses, or provided an easy escape from police Minister Alun Michael

The move was announced by Local Environmental Quality Minister Alun Michael on Friday.

He said: ""For many people living in areas of Greater Manchester blighted by crime and vandalism, this is very good news.

"These alleyways have given burglars easy access to the back of houses, or provided an easy escape from police."

He added: "In other places they have become sheltered havens for drug dealers, or have become an easy target for vandals."

Salford City Council's lead member for crime and disorder, Councillor David Lancaster said: "We have applied for these additional powers because we want to be sure that we have all the possible options open to us to help reduce instances of crime and disorder in our city."

The other council areas granted the new powers are: Redcar & Cleveland, Dudley, Milton Keynes, Halton, Salford, Rotherham, Bradford, Knowsley and Rochdale.