Years of vandalism, fly-tipping and crime could soon be over for residents of an Ilford road after an alleygate got unanimous approval.

The t-shaped area between Eastern Avenue, Castle Drive and The Drive is a magnet for criminal activity, according to resident John Sergent.

He said: “There have been extensive problems with all the goings on in the alley for a number of years and residents don’t know how to deal with it.

“I have been burgled twice in my house and garage and my neighbours have also been burgled.”

Needles and other evidence of drug use have been found in the alley and vandals have set cars alight and damaged windows and fences behind houses.

Speaking at Tuesday’s area committee seven meeting at Highlands Primary School, Highlands Gardens, Ilford, he said all affected tenants had agreed to have railings and gates installed to block the area off.

The requirement for unanimous approval has been a stumbling block for schemes in other areas but now it is moving forward.

Earlier this year, the committee agreed to contribute £5,500 in principle but Mr Sergent said contractors had estimated costs of between £11,000 and £15,000.