CALLS to install security gates along residential alleyways in Finchley have divided neighbour opinion.

A number of people are pushing for security improvements after three properties in Queens Road were targeted by burglars between November last year and January.

A total of four break-ins took place and residents asked Barnet Homes, which manages some of the properties along the road, to erect gates at the entrances to the alleyways that allow thieves easy access to back gardens.

Heather Soper, who was burgled and had more than £500 worth of property taken, said nobody was taking responsibility for protecting or maintaining the alleys, claiming homes were at risk if authorities continued to stall.

But a Barnet Homes spokesperson said any new gates would affect a large number of residents, including a significant number of private freeholders.

He said: “For that reason, following the initial contact from Ms Soper, we carried out a consultation with residents in the area to determine whether they would like gates installed.

“Some residents are opposed to the proposals, with concerns ranging from moving wheelie bins to being able to get out of the alleyways in cases of fire.

“However, we have agreed to install a gate in the alley entrance closest to Ms Soper’s property, as no neighbouring properties have complained. This is due to take place on June 8. We hope the new gate will go some way to allaying her concerns.”

Ms Soper said criminals would still be able to get into the alleyway network from other entrances and felt not enough was being done on safety.

“One gate is no good,” she said.

“The one gate is to appease me but does nothing to protect the whole street.

“I am still concerned we are at risk of burglary. If the other people had been living on an alleyway and had been burgled, I’m sure they would have a different opinion.”

She also said the overall state of the alleyways had been allowed deteriorate and said the weeds were damaging her property, with ivy growing up to 9ft on the fences.

“It has taken too long for anyone to take any responsibility over these alleys,” she said.

“They have just been passing the buck and I can’t keep spending hours each year trying to get this sorted.”

The spokesman for Barnet Homes confirmed this week they have decided to send a team to the site to clear it of the weeds and rubbish.

He said: “We have asked for the alleyways to be cleared through the Community Payback scheme and this should take place shortly.”