'Terror' path closed (From Barry And District News)

'Terror' path closed

RESIDENTS are celebrating after the town council agreed to shut a path near their houses which they claim is a magnet for yobs and vandals.

Those living in The Pastures in Barry, whose homes back on to Merthyr Dyfan Cemetery, say they have also been terrorised by quad bikers - and one woman's cat was shot on the path.

Barry Town Council opened the path in 2001 and it has proved a popular route for dog walkers.

But for Angela Price, who has campaigned along with other householders to permanently shut the land between her house and the cemetery, it has brought nothing but trouble.

Her cat was killed there, and at a council meeting on Monday she made the case for the route's permanent closure.

She said: "I speak on behalf of a number of houses on The Pastures, where the gated path runs. There have been many problems associated with the path.

"It is a perfect place for motorbikes and quad bikes to get to the playing fields.

"We are worried that there could be a serious assault because it is isolated and there is no lighting. It is a gathering place for juveniles in the summer months.

"Since the path has opened there have been an increased number of incidents which have needed the police to be called out. There has also been vandalism and damage to the cemetery fence."

Councillor Nigel Harkess said he was in favour of closure of the area and other councillors agreed.

A vote was called and the motion was passed to close the path permanently to the public.