GATES have been installed in two alleyways in an effort to drive out drug dealers and drunks.

Residents in Meir say the alleys had become a magnet for crime and anti-social behaviour.

Now Stoke-on-Trent City Council has put up five gates at the entrances which are expected to be in use by the end of the month.

The alley linking Harvey Road, Leason Road and Brookhouse Road has three gates, while another linking McDonald Crescent and Leason Road has two.

Brian Jones, chairman of Wood Farm Residents' Association, said residents had wanted the gates for years.

He said: "There have been a lot of problems in the alleys with litter, drinking and kids gathering. But the biggest problem is drugs – dealers use the alleys as a run-through.

"The residents' association recommended the gates and we've been promised they will be done several times. Now they are finally in place, I feel a lot better.

"When they are in use, I think a lot of people will feel safer. We believe they will cut down the drugs problems by 80 or 90 per cent."

Residents whose properties adjoin the alley will have to ask for a key. To ensure the gates are properly used, any abuse of the system will see offending residents have their keys taken away.

Public notices have been published to inform residents about the gates and the period for objections closed yesterday . The council says the gates will be in use as soon as any objections have been dealt with.

City councillor for Weston and Meir North, Michael Coleman, said: "There are big problems with drug dealers and burglars. These alleys have become a hangout for local drunks because it's out of sight of the police. Something needed doing and we're hoping these gates are going to have a big impact.

"The area also needs to be policed though, and we want a zero tolerance policy on drunken, yobbish behaviour and drugs on the estate".

Councillor Joan Bell, portfolio holder for community safety and neighbourhood management at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "Alley gates have been a big success in reducing nuisance and anti-social behaviour in alleyways throughout the city. These gates in Meir North were requested by residents and should help to improve the quality of life in the neighbourhood."