A RESIDENT has called for a kissing gate to replace a controversial 'crime-fighting' fence, believing it could prove a “workable solution” for all.

Back in December a closed-boarded fence was installed in Colchester, dividing a footpath and cycleway positioned to the east of John Castle Way and west of Dudley Court.

It was built and then put in place by a resident as a way to prevent anti-social behaviour which is said to have long caused misery for homeowners in the area. 

After the route was blocked off, however, complaints were raised to council bosses, who have since threatened to tear it down after stating permission for the installation was never granted.

One resident from Bourne Court, however, has now suggested replacing the fence with a kissing gate - a typically half-round, part-enclosure with one free end which allows people but not livestock to pass through.

The resident explained although “most kissing gates are only three or four foot high” the gate could be made to be 6ft tall so people do not climb over it.

They are particularly keen to see the fence removed after claiming it would now take her and family members with mobility issues “three times” as long to walk around it.

Gazette: Suggestion - A kissing gate at the Church of St Mary Magdalen Laver Essex Suggestion - A kissing gate at the Church of St Mary Magdalen Laver Essex (Image: Wikimedia)

The Bourne Court resident also believes a lockable gate - as opposed to a kissing gate - would create further problems with keys and questions regarding responsibilities.

They added: “The estate of John Castle Way was built on the provision that this walkway would remain in place - why then have they suddenly closed it off?

“They say it is because of anti-social behaviour, but I have never experienced such behaviour.”

Gazette: Tall - the fence in question is 6ft Tall - the fence in question is 6ft (Image: Newsquest)

The latest concerns over the fence come after a concerned relative of a family which lives on John Castle Way said she was unable to visit by taxi due to drivers being unable to use navigation systems due to the blocked path.

They also claimed postal workers are unable to deliver post due to the fence meaning “bank statements, bills, or even urgent supplies” are often missed.

The resident who put up the fence, meanwhile, has said they were told they did not need permission to put it in place.

A Colchester Council spokesman said: “The current application is under consideration.

"We are trying to work positively with all interested parties to find a satisfactory solution which addresses the concerns of the whole community.”