FOLLOWING reports of crime and anti social behaviour, Stockton Council's Community Safety Team is installing gates on part of Norton High Street.
Residents and businesses reported repeated incidents of anti social behaviour around the footpath leading from Picton Place to Norton High Street near Tesco Express and Ladbrokes.
In February there was a serious assault on two men in the area and five arrests were made. Stockton Council has worked closely with Cleveland Police on joint operations in the area offering support and advice to residents in the area.
Using legislation from the Cleaner Greener Neighbourhoods Act, Stockton Council is installing gates to restrict access to the footpath.
The gates will be locked every evening from 8pm and 7am between 1 May and 30 September and between 6pm and 7am at all other times.
Geoff Lee, Chair of the Safer Stockton Partnership, said: "The alleyway leading from Picton Place has seen a number of incidents and in particular a recent serious assault. Having consulted with residents surrounding the area and other partners, the introduction of a gating order is widely welcomed.
"The gates will help in the reduction of crime and anti social behaviour - gangs will no longer be able to congregate, nor use the alley as an escape route when police arrive, providing much needed respite to residents."
Anyone wanting to report anti social behaviour can contact the Council's Anti Social Behaviour Team on (01642) 607943 or email asbteam@stockton.gov.uk