TROUBLE hit ginnels and alleyways in part of Bolton are to be made safe in the latest crackdown on crime.

Housing chiefs have launched a major scheme in the area to close the routes which can be used by thieves and louts.

It is the latest project in Bolton Council's long-term plans to re-design ginnels and public pathways among all their stock of property.

People living in Westby Grove, Arnesby Grove, Royston Avenue and Roseacre Close in Tonge Moor will be the next to benefit.

The four ginnels, below the rooms of residential homes, will now become store rooms with some public walkways turned into private gardens with high fencing.

Nuisance

People described the ginnels as a source of nuisance providing a place for anti-social behaviour. Cllr Norman Critchley, speaking at a meeting of the planning and highways committee, welcomed the vote by members to carry out the work in Tonge Moor.

Cllr Critchley said: "It has been initiated by the council's housing department following people's concerns.

"These ginnels are a source of great concern and all of our housing stock is being looked at. All unauthorised use is being eradicated."

The scheme is part of a wider programme to "design out crime" in the town, getting rid of open spaces which have been pinpointed as criminal hot-spots.

Joan Hearne, assistant director of regeneration in the housing department, said 11 council estates had been identified as needing work to be carried out.

She added: "So far they have been a success. Removing alleys has given people more peace of mind."

Work has already been carried out in Deane and Breightmet and other sites with problems will be looked at in the near future.