DRUG-dealing and anti-social behaviour are rife under Blackbird Leys railway bridge, fed-up residents living nearby have said.

A rough, litter-strewn path has been trodden under Blackbird Leys Road, alongside the railway line, allowing access between Furlong Close and Linnet Close on the Oxford estate.

According to residents in surrounding streets, the area attracts trouble at night and is a magnet for crime.

In recent weeks Thames Valley Police responded to youths throwing stones at trains, smoking and dealing cannabis, and to complaints of a damaged fence. Network Rail has repaired fencing which had been set on fire.

In a residents’ newsletter, Thames Valley Police said: “It is reported youths are hanging around at different hours of the day, predominately evenings, and are being rowdy and smoking cannabis and drinking alcohol.

“British Transport Police and Network Rail have repaired some of the broken fencing to stop persons getting onto the tracks and we are liaising with the council to see what can be done with the rest. Our team will continue to monitor the area and look to work with the Community Response Team to conduct regular patrols.”

The force could not provide any more detail when questioned.

Linnet Close resident Harry Williams, 20, said: “It’s a shambles, full of broken glass, and you wouldn’t really want to go there at night. The police know about it because they are always down, but what can be done about it? Something should be.”

Martin O’Callahan, of Furlong Close, said: “I’ve lived here 20 years and it’s been terrible as long as I’ve known.

“We’ve told the police and council about it but they don’t seem to be able to do anything. It should be blocked off so people can’t get through.”

Kestrel Crescent electrician Rob Linton, 54, said: “People sleep under there and everyone knows it is trouble.”

Furlong Close resident Alan Prescott said: “We have complained and the police know how bad it is but they can’t put fencing up. The council needs to come and sort it out.”

Oxford City Council did not respond when approached about the matter.

Network Rail spokeswoman Sam Kelly said: “About six months ago we repaired the fence. A few weeks ago we carried out more repairs. We work hard to tell young people about the dangers of trespass and vandalism.”

Have you seen or reported problems under the bridge? Contact reporter Mark Taylor on 01865 425411 or email mark.taylor@oxfordmail.co.uk