When housing schemes are prepared these days, crime prevention is one aspect that is given top priority.

Alleyways are usually avoided so that criminals have no hiding place. But half a century ago, little attention was paid to such detail, as residents at Blackbird Leys in Oxford have found to their cost.

One alley off Windale Avenue has become notorious for vandalism, drug dealing, verbal abuse, arson and other forms of antisocial behaviour.

Now, after a long campaign by neighbours, the city council has decided to seal it off at night with locked steel gates.

And not before time. It is intolerable that families anywhere should have to put up with such disruption to their lives.

The episode has shown how important it is that crime prevention officers are involved in the design of new housing complexes.

It also shows the value of residents speaking up and fighting for their right to live in peace.

We hope that the city and other councils will not hesitate to act where similar problems exist.