DOZENS of people have written to Darlington Borough Council urging the closure of a pathway which has become a haven for criminals.

People living near the newly-opened walkway connecting Ullswater Avenue and Railway View, near Neasham Road, Darlington, say there has been a huge surge in anti-social behaviour, thefts and other crimes.

Durham Police said the footpath generates crime and warned it is a site where someone could be assaulted or where a child could be abducted.

After a study into the increase in violence, the council applied for planning permission to close the footpath.

It wants to close the walkway off with 3m-high steel fences at either end.

Trees and bushes would then be planted, as well as a meadow for wild flowers.

The council launched a public consultation across the area, from Bank Top station to Parkside, and so far about 25 letters in support of the council plans have been received.

One letter says: "The area was quiet before the footpath opened and now I worry about what will happen next".

People have complained about youngsters throwing eggs, stones and mud at homes, and about motorbikes and scooters racing along the path.

Another letter reads: "I have two small children and I don't want them getting hurt or ill. The estate was a nice place to live before".

Another adds: "Please, please, please, in the name of common sense, shut this walkway down".

A few letters objecting to the closure were also received.

In a letter to the council, John Hedley, force architectural officer, said: "The footpath, once considered convenient, has become a liability.

"Such footpaths are considered crime generators."

He said the safety of users must be considered.

The application will be considered by councillors on February 16 and letters on the future of walkway will be accepted up to that date.