Residents in Ilford are trying to close of an alley behind their houses after years of battling against drug deals, fly-tipping and crime.

In the latest incident, a man tried to rape a woman after pulling her into the dark alley between Cowley Road, Vaughan Gardens and Cowley Road last month.

Resident Tanveer Ahmed said: “In July, people had to chase away drug users and dealers from the alley.

“There have been several burglaries where the thieves have come over the fence from there.

“We believe installing an alleygate will return the area to the residents and make it a safe space.”

Redbridge Council’s area committee seven granted £2,086 towards the scheme - half the total cost - at a meeting on Tuesday at Aldborough E-ACT Free School, Aldborough Road South, Seven Kings.

Cllr Ashok Kumar (Cons, Crabrook) said he was aware of issues in the alley for many years.

Community safety cabinet member Cllr Shoaib Patel (Lib Dem, Valentines) praised the work of Mr Ahmed and other residents who start alleygate schemes.

If everyone in the road consents, two gates will be installed at either end of the alley to keep intruders out.