A COUNCIL plans to close three footpaths in a bid to stop gangs of youths causing a nuisance to residents.

Hartlepool Borough Council has taken the decision to close two paths on the town's Fens estate, between Aldeburgh Close and the Black Path, and at the rear of Barford Close.

The other path forms part of Serpentine Road and runs between Wooler Road and St Bega's Glade.

The closure decisions were urged by Councillor Victor Tumilty, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and transportation, after a meeting with residents at the civic centre.

He heard how people living close to the footpaths are subjected to regular disturbances by gangs of youths, sometimes into the early hours of the morning.

Coun Tumilty recommended that both Fens footpaths be "stopped up", with the land incorporated into the boundaries of neighbouring properties.

In addition, he called for alley gates to be installed at either end of the Serpentine Road path.

He said: "Residents are entitled to some peace and quiet in their own homes, and it is clear that people living close to these footpaths are having their quality of life seriously undermined by the actions of an unruly minority.

"It is important that the council takes steps to try to help them, and that is why I am recommending the closure of these three footpaths."

A spokesman for the council said all three closures were subject to the required funding being identified.