10ft security fences for village?

13 September 2009

A SET of 10ft-high security fences could soon block off alleyways around a North Somerset village.

Councillor Marcia Pepperall has been looking at introducing the drastic measures around Worle.

Earlier this year, the Mercury reported how children were wreaking havoc in the North of the village.

Those living around Stodelegh Close revealed how they had been subjected to a spate of attacks, including having their front window smashed, a metal pole put through their porch and excrement thrown at the front of their house.

Cllr Pepperall said: "Some residents suffer from problems of opportunistic break-ins, criminal damage, antisocial behaviour, fly tipping and graffiti - especially those who live close to alleyways, which are common in North Worle."

Cllr Pepperall arranged to be shown round Horfield by Bristol police officers to look at their solution to similar troubles. She is now looking into the possibility of introducing something similar in Worle.

There has been a 40 per cent reduction in crime and antisocial behaviour recently, plus cuts in the amount of alcohol abuse and fly tipping in the area.

Cllr Pepperall added: "All this has been achieved simply by fitting gates and security fences each end of alleyways.

"Residents with alleys by their homes have grouped together and obtained 50 per cent grants towards the cost of gating off areas and then each householder has keys.

"In Bristol they have found gating brings a new community spirit and pride in the neighbourhood - police time is freed up for public benefit and ratepayers' money is saved by not having to clear graffiti and litter."

Councillor Pepperall would like to hear from North Worle residents interested in making a grant application. For more details call her on 07976 801184.