Security lighting is to be installed to try and reduce problems caused by louts congregating in an Arataki accessway linking Ocean Downs Reserve and Francevic Ave.
The Tauranga City Council was today responding to a petition from 41 residents complaining about the path, including a personal appeal from a 92-year-old disabled resident who complained she was being terrorised by the antics of the youths.
The petition to close the access which doubles as a stormwater flow path was tabled at the meeting.
Council transportation manager Martin Parkes said that closing the access could have a negative impact on run-off during heavy rain and could result in nearby properties being flooded.
Problems listed by the elderly woman included bottles being smashed in the walkway after drinking sessions, beer cans being thrown over the fence, eggs and rotten fruit being thrown at the side of her house and stones thrown at the garage door.
The council decided to try security lighting and perhaps a camera to combat the problem. Meeting chairman Kelvin Clout said if that failed they would consider closing off the accessway.
