GATES are to be on installed on a Teesside high street in order to clampdown on anti-social behaviour.

Stockton Borough Council’s community safety team will putting the security measures in place on Norton High Street after complaints from residents.

Incidents of anti social behaviour around the footpath leading from Picton Place to Norton High Street near Tesco Express and Ladbrokes have been reported.

In February there was a serious assault on two men in the area and five arrests were made.

The 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 Neighbourhoods and Environment Act, Stockton Council is installing gates to restrict access to the footpath.

The gates will be locked every evening from 8pm and 7am between May 1 and September 30 and between 6pm and 7am at all other times.

Geoff Lee, chair of the Safer Stockton Partnership, said: "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