A PIONEERING pilot project, aimed at improving the environment and reducing crime and disorder, has begun in Poulton and the West End of Morecambe.

The first of four pairs of ' alley-gates' are being placed at either the end of back alleys in Cedar street.

Three more will follow in Melrose Ave, Beecham St and Grove St, Morecambe.

The pilot project, one of the first in North Lancashire, has been funded by Lancaster City Council and Poulton Neighbourhood Management and is being run in partnership with Lancashire County Council and local residents.

The new move follows requests from residents who were keen to find a solution to issues including random rubbish dumping and crime and disorder issues.

However, before introducing the pilot, Lancaster City Council carried out extensive consultation with residents and obtained 100 per cent agreement from all residents living in the four streets before proceeding with the work.

The project also has the support of all the statutory bodies including fire, police and refuse collectors.

Once the gates are in place all residents will be issued with a key and one resident will be designated official key holder for the street.

It is anticipated that all the gates will be in place by the end of March.