Drug dealing, vandalism, fly tipping and dirty streets in the ‘fields’ area of Ellesmere Port have given rise to a petition.

Cllr Justin Madders, (Lab), ward councillor for Ellesmere Port Town and Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Ellesmere Port and Neston, has handed the 200-signature petition to the chairman of the borough council Bob Rudd.

Cllr Madders is asking the council to tackle the ongoing problems with anti-social behaviour in the area.

The petition was raised after residents expressed their anger and frustration at the deterioration in the neighbourhood with the problems all mentioned by occupiers as issues that had caused them concern in recent months.

Cllr Madders said: “Residents have now said enough is enough and they want some action from the council.

“The petition has around 200 signatures which means it has been signed by most people living in the area and is a sign that the community collectively want action.

“I am pleased to say that the police and council have responded positively to this demand and I hope that with their support we can see alley gates installed in the area which will hopefully cut down crime.”

He added: “There have also been steps to clean the place up including a community clean-up day.

“Slowly but surely, residents are taking back their community.”