COUNCILLORS will meet later this week to discuss plans to introduce a pilot scheme for using alley gates within the borough of Stockton.

It is hoped introducing the gates in the Newtown and Mandale areas will improve the environment and reduce crime and other anti-social behaviour.

The scheme, which places security gates at the ends of back alleys in areas made up of terraced housing where crime is a problem, has proved successful in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough.

Local residents and ward councillors will be consulted. Stockton Borough Council's cabinet will discuss the proposals on Thursday.