COUNCIL bosses are using architecture and design in the fight against crime.

In the first phase of a seven-year campaign against crime, Chester-le-Street District Council has set up a £30,000 design scheme to use architecture to deter troublemakers.

Councillors have targeted the Sanders Memorial Hall for the improvements because it has suffered at the hands of vandals and drug-users in recent years.

This week, the council unveiled anti-crime measures at the hall including:

l Rebuilt entranceways to remove alcoves and deter drug-users

l Increased perimeter security through better fencing and gates

l Improved lighting

l Opening up the landscape and vistas by removing trees and shrubs.

Other improvements include fitting better locks to the doors and windows as well as a new intruder alarm.

In the past, events such as coffee mornings, evening clubs, craft activities, slimming groups and disabled groups have been disrupted because of gangs of youths intimidating hall users or vandalising the building.

Council leader Councillor Malcolm Pratt said: "The council is committed to tackling crime and disorder and addressing social exclusion.

"Improvements like this make the environment a safer and more pleasant place for the people of Chester West.

"This hall can now be used by the community as a whole and meet the needs of the old and young."

The seven-year plan will continue in Chester West, Sacriston and Pelton Fell with the help of round five of the Government Single Regeneration Budget.

A spokesman for the council said: "Applying simple design techniques to new or existing buildings and areas can make significant reductions in crime.

"For example, removing recesses from the side of the door will deter people from loitering under the canopy and making the doorway feel unsafe and unthreatening.

"Not only can the layout of a site discourage crime, it can also help to reduce the fear of crime, and that is equally important."