Crime-hit village 'fenced in'

The gates will seal off back alleys

Access to parts a County Durham village is to be sealed off by large metal gates in an effort to keep out criminals.

Alleyways in the village of Coundon, near Bishop Auckland, will be closed off with local householders given keys.

The area has been given public money for the trial, which could be taken up elsewhere in the county.

Similar projects have already proved successful in Teesside, London and Merseyside.

County Council bosses say the move is aimed at reducing crime an anti-social behaviour in the area.

The village has suffered from vandalism, drug abuse and arson attacks in recent months.

Grant aid

Gordon Wingrove, southern area deputy engineer for Durham County Council, said the majority of residents were in favour of the 8 foot high gates being installed.

He said: "We had to have at least 75% of the residents in favour of the scheme.

"We have received grant aid for an 18-month trial of the gates.

"Until the trial is complete we won't be erecting gates at any other sites in the county."

Mr Wingrove said the gates are made with welded mesh and are difficult to breach.

He added: "This has been discussed with the emergency services because it will stop malicious fires in the area."