COMMUNITY RENEWAL NEWS: Gateway to success

Alleygates in Liverpool have cut burglary rates by a third, according to research published this week. The UK's first study into the effectiveness of the gates, which block access to alleys between and behind houses, found that 727 burglaries have been prevented in the 12 months following the scheme's launch four years ago. Other benefits included a reduction in anti-social behaviour, a reduction in fear of crime and stress levels among residents, and a rise in the pride in the area. The 4,000th gate was installed this week (above). The University of Liverpool report is available from (tel) 0151 794 3110.