Plans to install gates on a lane in Workington town centre to ease anti-social behaviour are taking a step forward.

Cumbria police announced last year they wanted to install gates at each end of the lane next to Subway and Argos, off Murray Road.

The move came after an increase in criminal damage and needles being found in the area.

Now police are in the process of applying to Allerdale council for a Public Spaces Protection Order, which is necessary to install the gates.

But Allerdale council said not enough information has been supplied in support of the application on crime data and police are due to meet local businesses to gather evidence that the gates are needed.

Sergeant Lorraine Murphy said: “We are continuing to work with the council to find a solution to this issue.

“Officers are considering the best way forward, which may involve approaching the affected business owners in the area in order to obtain detailed statements which would support the application.

“We understand the eagerness of businesses in the area for a resolution. We have put considerable time and resources into this issue ourselves and are just as eager.”

Businesses in the area said antisocial behaviour continues to be an issue.

Rhisa Hughes, deputy manager at Workington’s Subway, said: “The situation hasn’t improved, we still see anti-social behaviour there. I think the gates would actually help ease the situation.”

A spokesman for Argos said: “Anti-social behaviour has frustratingly been a problem in the area for some time now and we are continuing to work diligently with Cumbria police, Allerdale council and other local businesses to implement a solution as quickly as possible.”

A council spokesman said: “It is a requirement of the legislation that detailed data is collected about the incidents which have taken place and impact statements from businesses and individuals in the area who have been affected, before formal public consultation can go ahead.

“Local police teams are now working with the council’s town centre manager to compile this information so the application can be taken to the next stage.”

Toni Magean, town centre manager, said: “We have found that incidents aren’t always reported to the police, but this information is fundamental for the application to go ahead.”

The gates, of a maximum height of 10ft, will cost around £5,000 and will be funded by Allerdale council and Workington Town Council.

Shopkeepers will be in charge of opening the gates in the morning and closing them at night.