Councils are to get powers to seal off alleys that encourage crime.
Rural affairs minister Alun Michael has launched two consultation papers that propose to implement crime prevention and obstructions provisions in the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

"The new powers will enable highway authorities to address the disruption caused by persistent criminal activity in back alleys, or gulleys, on housing estates," he said.

Highway authorities would work with local crime and disorder partnerships, police and residents' groups before making a submission to the secretary of state recommending closures.

"As these important new powers are regarded as a first response to tackling crime, we will designate areas where the new crime prevention powers will be available," Michael added.

Other proposals include giving local people powers to get councils to remove obstructions.