SEVERAL footpaths in east Cleveland could be closed as a way of preventing crime.

Under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, paths including footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways or byways open to all traffic, can be stopped up or diverted in the interests of community safety.

It can only be done in an area which is designated by the Government as a high crime area.

There is also an obligation on Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council to make sure that the benefits of closing the path outweigh its own policy of encouraging more walking and cycling on direct and convenient routes.

The news was welcomed by Councillor Dave McLuckie, the authority's lead member for community safety.

He said: "There exists a rabbit warren of escape routes for people who want to carry out anti social behaviour.

"We should be working closely with the police to close down some of these escape hatches, because if you extinguish the walkways you are helping to extinguish the anti- social behaviour which is overtaking our communities at the moment.

"I think it is fantastic news for those people who live nearby and have to deal with it."

The council's community wardens are also to be asked for their input on footpaths in their areas, which they know to be used by criminals.

Consultation by Defra (the Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs) is expected to take place between February and April 2002 and the restrictions could be put in place by October of this year.