New security barrier installed

12.00.00am GMT Mon 17th Nov 2008

Liberal Democrat councillors in Burmantofts and Richmond Hill have donated £1300 from their MICE (Members Improvement in the Community and Environment) budget to install a new lockable barrier to the alleyway between St Albans Road and Harehills Lane.

Previously, bollards were stationed at either end of the alleyway to prevent people from driving cars along it and disrupting local residents. However, it also prevented street cleaners from gaining access, leading to an accumulation of litter and graffiti and creating an untidy appearance.

Leeds City Council's StreetScene have a key to the new barrier, meaning that road sweepers and street cleaning equipment can gain access to the alley and carry out essential work.

Geoff Holloran from Re'New, who worked on the improvements, explained:

"This area was identified by local residents as an area in need of attention during one of the regular walkabouts with ward members, neighbourhood wardens and council staff. As a result the alley has had a large area cleaned of graffiti and the lockable barrier installed."

Councillor David Hollingsworth (Lib Dem, Burmantofts & Richmond Hill), commented:

"We are delighted to be able to fund security improvements to the St Albans Road and Harehills Lane alley way. The new barrier will protect the safety of local residents, whilst still allowing the area to be cleaned and maintained properly. We hope that all local residents will now feel safe and secure using the pathway."