A SUCCESSFUL programme of installing gates on alleys in Middlesbrough will get £500,000.

Over the next two years, more gates will be installed in residential areas in central Middlesbrough, North Ormesby, the Linthorpe, Park and Clairville areas of the town.

Consultation with residents about the new security measures will start in the new year, with installation work beginning in the spring.

To decide the areas most in need of the gates, Middlesbrough Council examined the burglary figures and looked at problems with litter or nuisance behaviour.

The council also checked whether residents would support and help to manage the alley gates when they were installed.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, executive member for community safety, said: "I can't emphasise enough the importance of residents actually getting behind the idea of alley gates.

"When they are installed, it will really be up to them to ensure they are used properly and locked when they should be.

"Alley gates have been very effective and reassuring for residents where they have been introduced.

"People shouldn't let up on their own measures to ensure their home is secure when they are installed, but there is no doubt they are a big help in deterring burglaries and fly tipping."

The work, funded by the council, Single Regeneration Budget, Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and European money, is due to be completed by summer 2006. Residents are given gate keys to get in and out of alleyways and are given the responsibility for ensuring the scheme runs smoothly.

So far, about 7,000 properties benefit from scheme.

Independent ward councillor for Linthorpe Jackie Elder said: "The majority of people are in favour, but there are concerns over minor matters.

"I have already leafleted many residents to give them the opportunity to have a look at the plans and allow them to object to the scheme if they want to.

"Some residents are concerned about who has keys and what happens if there are any problems with the locks.

"Linthorpe is having problems with crime at the moment and these alley gates should hopefully help bring the problem under control."