The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) on Hatter Lane, Boston extended for a further three-year period)

Boston Borough Council's Cabinet has agreed to keep Hatter Lane in the town accessible by keypad-controlled gates only.

An alleyway once riddled with littering, fly-tipping, urination, and defecation is to remain locked to prevent anti-social behaviour.

The locking system at both sides was first installed in 2015 after a number of attempts to reduce anti-social behaviour. The gates at either end of Hatter Lane have a keypad, enabling residents, businesses and emergency services who need to use the alleyway, can access it at all times.

Cllr Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: "I am really pleased to report the positive impact of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in addressing longstanding concerns in Hatter Lane. Since its implementation, the gating system has proven its effectiveness in deterring such behaviours and safeguarding the environment.

"Without the continued enforcement of the PSPO and the presence of gating measures, there's a significant risk of these issues resurfacing. Therefore, we firmly believe that maintaining the PSPO is a justified and necessary measure for the ongoing management of anti-social behaviour in Hatter Lane."

Police confirmed that there were no instances of crime, environmental crime and ASB incidents in the alleyway between 1st April 2021 and 31st January 2024.