Crime in Tenterden could be drastically reduced after gates were installed to block off a problem footpath.

The gates are designed to stop anti-social behaviour that has been plaguing residents living behind the path that runs to Henley Fields - which police say is responsible for a third of crime committed in the town.

The path will close for two years, only opening in that time for emergency services.

Sgt Rachel McNeil of Tenterden police said: “The gates have gone up because of the anti-social behaviour and crime in that particular alley, which is responsible for a third of crime in Tenterden and St Michael’s.

Missiles

“There have been cases of damaged fences, graffiti, tiles knocked off roofs by stones, excrement has been thrown into gardens and there were possibly drugs being used there.”

Sgt McNeil expects the majority of residents to be delighted.

She added: “This has not been taken lightly.

“These residents are repeat victims and they are out of pocket for all the damage they have suffered. They couldn’t sit in the garden at certain times through fear of missiles being thrown into the garden.”

The Kentish Express reported plans to close the path back in November. Nearby resident Peter Marshall was among those unhappy as he sees it as the closure of a public access.

He said it was removing a much used amenity, adding: “Local children have won and closed this footpath, and we live in anticipation as to where they will now congregate.”

But others have welcomed the installation of the gates.

Jean and David Curteis whose home backs on to the alley, were delighted at the prospect.

Mr Curteis said: “We’ve had eggs and rubbish thrown at our windows and the back door. I have been bombarded with plum bombs - one came straight into our kitchen.”