RESIDENTS who called for a gate to be installed in an alleyway to stop anti-social behaviour could be disappointed.

People in Mountston Close, Hartlepool, have complained that they are regularly subjected to anti-social behaviour by youths using the footpath that leads from the close to Hart Lane.

They say problems include large groups gathering on the footpath to drink alcohol, abusive behaviour, damage to gardens and other property, graffiti and littering.

Hartlepool Borough Council has consulted 170 residents on the proposal and received 99 responses. Of these, 54 were in favour.

A report to the council's regeneration and planning portfolio, which meets today, said: "The results of the consultation show residents are fairly equally split both in favour and against the proposal.

"The majority of supporters are from the vicinity closest to the gate and the reasons for this are, without exception, due to anti-social behaviour.

"Those residents who are not in favour of the gate generally cite inconvenience, as they would be subjected to substantially longer journeys on foot to reach the facilities on Wiltshire Way, including a doctors, dentist, shops and a chemist.

"The introduction of a gate is likely to increase the number of car journeys for residents wishing to visit these local facilities."

Members of the portfolio are being recommended not to support the proposal to erect the gate.