Lane gating
However there are issues on our streets that we want to tackle - such as crime, fly-tipping, littering, dog-fouling, anti-social behaviour. So, we are looking at different ways to improve our local environment including lane gating.
Lane gating is when lockable gates are installed at the end of back lanes so that these areas can only be accessed by residents and local businesses.
For an area to be considered for lane gating a legal test must be met. This must show that anti-social behaviour:
- is or is likely to have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality
- is, or is likely to be, persistent or continuing in nature
- is, or is likely to be, unreasonable, and
- justifies the restrictions imposed.
In addition councils must consider whether it is possible to restrict access, the impact of any restrictions and whether there are alternatives.
We want everyone to be able to love where they live and sadly the actions of some affect our local neighbourhoods for everyone.
- reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour
- reduction in environmental crimes such as fly-tipping, dog-fouling and littering
- improved community spirit
- safe space for children to play
The views of residents and local businesses will be taken into account with any proposed lane gating schemes in the future.
Deckham - what is happening now?
In Autumn 2025, residents told us that they would like gates in their area.
In January 2026, we shared some proposed locations and pictures of what those gates could look like and you told us what you thought of them. Check out the gate design here. (PDF, 52 KB)
Thank you to everyone who has helped to develop the lane-gating plan.
In March and April 2026, we carried out a formal public consultation on the creation of a 'Public Space Protection Order' (PSPO) (the legal provision that would allow us to put the lane-gating plan into effect). We are now working through your feedback.