Set to end drugs problem

A smelly underpass in Lichfield which attracts drug users and gangs of youths could soon be closed off, to the delight of nearby residents.

The subway under Eastern Avenue is proving too intimidating for residents in neighbouring Gilbert Road to use.

Staffordshire County Council announced today it hopes to close the underpass.

It will first undertake an informal then a formal consultation before coming to a final decision.

Spokesman Carly Millership said: "We are looking to close the underpass following reports from residents, a school and a councillor."

Independent Lichfield campaigner John Walker said residents were keen to see the underpass closed.

"People don't use it, they are scared, so it is for the best that it is closed off," he said.

"It is a gathering area for drug distribution and residents see people injecting themselves with needles there."

Littered

Residents said the subway is offered littered with used needles and syringes along with rubbish and glass and it is often used as a public toilet.

Nearby resident Norma Graves , aged 70, of Gilbert Road, is delighted it is set to close.

"Youngsters from all over the place gather there. They play football, let bangers off and run through it," she said.

"It can smell to high heaven some days, people don't just walk through it they use it for other purposes - it seems to be a convenient place for people after a few drinks."

She also said the smell of drugs hits people as they walk through the tunnel.

"You can smell a strong sweet smell and see bits of burnt silver foil on the floor, other people see needles," she said.

"People also complain about the drug addicts there so it is the best thing for it to close it."