NEW £25,000 gates could put a stop to crowds of youths gathering and causing a nuisance outside homes in New Brighton.

Ward councillor Pat Hackett said that gangs of more than 50 teenagers have had to be moved on by police after hanging around Earlston Park at weekends.

Residents have complained about underage drinking, arguing and shouting coming from the "rowdy" groups who leave litter and empty beer bottles strewn around the child's play area.

One man said that "all hell breaks loose" when the teens begin to fight and intimidate the neighbours, and described one instance when he witnessed a youth jumping on and off the back of a parked car.

He said: "I am sick to death with this feeling of inadequacy where I am not in control of my safety.

"I know someone who lives down the street who is dying of cancer and can't understand why this is all going on right on his doorstep - why on earth should his last days be full of bewilderment?"

Cllr Pat Hackett, who has set up meetings with the community, said the council is planning to install new gates and fencing to cordon off the Earlston Road park and cemetery at night.

The police are also heavily involved in the crackdown to prevent antisocial behaviour in the area.

Cllr Hackett said: "We have attracted funding of £25,000 from the council's budget and the process of installing fencing and lockable gates has already started.

"We know we can't wave a magic wand but a joint effort will help to put an end to the misery that the residents have to endure."

Mark Joynson, a member of the Friends of Rake Lane Cemetery, has lived opposite Earlston Library for 20 years.

He said: "The gates and fencing are what we have needed for a long time.

"I was once assaulted by a group of youths who were just sitting around drinking alcohol.

"We need to put a stop to this."

Police neighborhood inspector Julie Fletcher said: "The area of Earlston Park has seen a reduction in reports of anti-social behaviour.

"This is a direct result of partnership work that has been carried out and includes youth engagement by the neighbourhood PCSOs, particularly PSCO Dave Lamont.

"We will continue to engage with the community to build on the excellent work that has been done so far."

A community meeting will be held at Earlston Library on Monday, November 12, at 7pm.