Back alleys are used as a dumping ground

The Acklam area of Middlesbrough is to be targeted in an effort to cut crime and anti-social behaviour.

Council chiefs will be able to seal off or divert alleys if it can be shown the result will be a reduction in crime.

Residents and businesses have welcomed the move.

Residential areas

Middlesbrough Borough Council asked for the new measures, after providing evidence of problems in an alleyway between Keswick Grove and Trimdon Avenue in Acklam.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, executive member for public protection at Middlesbrough Council, said: "We take a pro-active approach in combating anti-social behaviour particularly in residential areas.

"We welcome these extra powers given to us for the Keswick Grove area.

"Being able to apply for these new powers means that we have a wider range of resources and responses to tackle anti-social behaviour."

Home Office Minister Hazel Blears, added: "We are determined to reduce crime and drugs misuse to help make people feel safe and secure in their communities."

Support officers

Closing the alleyways where criminals and thugs hang around is an important first step in helping to rid communities of intimidating and criminal behaviour.

"The power to close alleyways is just one of the measures the government has introduced to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

"These powers, alongside record numbers of police officers and community support officers, will help police tackle the anti-social behaviour that makes life a misery for so many in our communities."

As with existing legislation to close rights of way, Middlesbrough Council will still have to invite objections to proposals to close alleys.