Closure plea fails on Shane Watson attack alleyway
An alleyway where murder victim Shane Watson was attacked will not be closed, despite a campaign by relatives and friends.
Dudley Council made the decision after a police survey found 15 per cent of residents backed the call. Mr Watson, aged 23, was attacked in the alleyway at Springfield Grove, Sedgley, while on his way home from a night out in the town. He later died of head injuries in hospital.
Mr Watson's cousin Scott Maher-Butler said: "The problem with a survey of the estate is that there will always be people at the top end who use it and will want it. People at the bottom end know the problems it causes.
"I know the council have cut back the trees, but it could have been so much better – how are they going to stop scooters going up there?" He said the decision will bring no comfort to the family, who are still grieving.
He added: "Christmas is coming up, his mother is upset, and his dad is doing the best he can."
The council said it was now working closely with police to monitor anti-social behaviour in the area.
Cabinet member Councillor Judy Foster said: "We have worked closely with police partners to carefully consider this issue before making any decisions following the tragic death of Shane.
"We have listened to the concerns of the family and also consulted local community and local ward members, and feedback from them confirmed that this alleyway is well used by people locally and therefore on balance should remain open."
Last week, James Cartwright, 18, of Sandyfields Road, pleaded guilty to murdering Mr Watson. Co-defendant Shylon Wishart, 19, of North Springfield, denies the same charge.
Wishart will go on trial in the new year.
