RESIDENTS have questioned the proposed installation of more than 140 alleygates designed to cut crime and anti-social behaviour.

When the plans for the £650,000 scheme were unveiled in Middlesbrough, people were baffled by the omission of some of the worst-affected streets.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council's community safety spokesman, presented proposals to Park Ward Community Council to extend the scheme out of the town centre into Park, Linthorpe, University and North Ormesby wards.

He said the scheme would cover at least 140 streets in 18 months, installing gates that have been hailed as an effective measure against crime and anti-social behaviour.

To decide the areas most in need of the gates, the council examined burglary figures and looked at problems with litter or nuisance behaviour.

But residents questioned why streets such as Haymore Street and Rochester Road were not included.

One resident, who did not want to be named for fear of reprisal, said: "The worst streets are not on the list at all and that is very worrying."

Independent ward councillor for Linthorpe Jackie Elder said: "Certain areas need the gates more urgently than others but, while everywhere else is being secured, other areas will be more vulnerable."

Coun Coppinger, defending the choices, said: "The streets we are tackling are the worst in terms of crime figures. "

A public meeting will be held to consult residents on the proposals.