Coded door to protect Bexhill residents from anti-social behaviour and public urination

The installation of a coded door to the alleyway leading to properties above Co-op, in Western Road, is designed to protect those living there.

The area has become a hotspot for anti-social behaviour including those caught short using it to relieve themselves.

After hearing of the residents’ plight, the Rother Community Safety Partnership agreed to contribute towards the cost of the door which will allow only those living in the flats access to the alleyway.

The partnership, which includes Rother District Council, Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, paid half of the cost with the landlord paying the remainder.

Cllr Brian Drayson, chair of the partnership, said: “This is a great example of the council and police working together to address a major concern for local residents.

“Something as simple as installing a coded door will make a big difference to the lives of those residents blighted by the continued anti-social behaviour, and I am delighted that we have been able offer them practical help.”

Sussex Police and Rother District Council say they will continue to work together to address the behaviour of individuals that has a negative impact on those using the shops and town centre, including the use of anti-social behaviour legislation and the Public Space Protection Order.

Inspector Jonathan Hartley from Sussex Police’s Hastings and Rother Prevention team added: “The particular location has seen a number of complaints made to Sussex Police and partners due to the anti-social behaviour that took place.

“Working together we have been able to install the gate which will make a huge difference to the families living in the flats, along with tackling the behaviour that was associated with this location.”