A "RAT run" road in Bradford plagued by anti-social driving and fly-tipping is to be closed off by Bradford Council.

It has said the closure of New Lane, which sits between Holmewood and Tong, "seems the only option" to tackle the problems faced by those living in the area.

A spokesperson the Council said: “For many years New Lane and Raikes Lane between Holme Wood and Tong have been plagued by anti-social driving and illegal fly-tipping, as well as being used as a rat-run by vehicles.

“Bradford Council along with residents and other partner agencies have tried a variety of ways to solve the continuing problems without success.

“Because it is open at both ends at Tong Lane and Raikes Lane, New Lane allows an easy getaway for criminals.

“After a series of consultations and with the support of the local community, we have had to accept that closing off New Lane with a gate seems the only option to reduce fly-tipping and dangerous driving."

The spokesperson added: “We have already erected signs in preparation for the temporary, then permanent closure later this year depending on possible working arrangements due to Coronavirus.

“Both the temporary and permanent barriers will allow farmers to be able to move equipment and livestock.

"There will also be easy access for horse riders, pedestrians and cyclists.

“Once the closure is in place, the situation will be monitored, as will any knock-on effect to traffic on nearby roads.”

Matt Edwards, Green Party activist for the area, said of the closure: “Bradford Council have done this because unfortunately the lanes have attracted a lot of anti-social behaviour and dangerous driving over the years.

“Both New Lane and Raikes Lane are targets for fly tipping and Bradford Council hope by closing the road off it will help reduce it happening along both roads.

"But the council will need to monitor the traffic on Holme Lane."

In November 2018, a large amount of waste was dumped in the middle of the road causing the road to be closed off.

The mass of household waste, soil, bin bags and a wheel were all found on the road. Police were sent to the scene to re-direct motorists until the Council arrived to clear up the mess.

Councillor Alan Wainwright (Lab, Tong) described the incident as "diabolical" and said at the time that proposals were going through to put a gate at the bottom of the road.

Mr Edwards added: “I know this will cause inconvenience for the people who have used the road safely over the years.

"This will also likely increase the traffic using the traffic lights at the junction of Holme Lane and Tong Street especially at rush hour and I will be keeping in touch with the Highways Department to ensure changes to the lights are made if necessary.”