Alleyway in Northampton rife with anti-social behaviour and site of manslaughter finally gated off permanently

An alleyway in Northampton town centre rife will anti-social behaviour has finally been permanently gated off.

Jeyes Jetty is a narrow alleyway between the Drapery and College Street where Bradley Matcham was punched in the head on February 9, 2019.

The 24-year-old died nine days later due to his injuries and his 19-year-old killer was jailed for four years for manslaughter.

Bradley's mother - Sarah Matcham - stood up in front of councillors in October 2019 to ask for the alleyway to be closed off for good.

A public consultation followed whereby 70 per cent of the 188 respondents voted in favour of permanently gating Jeyes Jetty, and about 47 per cent said they had suffered anti-social behaviour at the site.

In its response, Northamptonshire Police said the alleyway had been the location of sexual assault, robbery and serious violence. Northampton Fire and Rescue said they have attended several fires at the site costing a total of £7,200.

Today (March 5), gates were finally installed, as well as two plaques.

The Drapery end plaque is a tribute to Bradley and the College street end plaque marks the historic significance of Jeyes Jetty.

Ms Matcham said: “Finally the Jeyes Jetty alleyway is now gated and closed to pedestrians. A tribute to my beautiful son Bradley.

"It has taken over 15 years to get to this day and no one is more relieved than myself.

“Bradley my son was killed with one punch at the entrance of the Jeyes Jetty alleyway in February 2019 trying to get to his friend in the alleyway.

"Bradley was an amazing 24-year-old young man with his life ahead of him, he touched the hearts of everyone with his smile and kindness.

“October 16, 2019 will be a day I shall never forget it was just a week before what would have been Bradley's 25th birthday.

"On that night I spoke from my heart to the Northampton Borough Council cabinet asking for a PSPO under section 17 of the crime and disorder act 1998 to be granted and the Jeyes Jetty alleyway closed to the public due to the years of anti-social behaviour, crime and now my son's death.

“Through the Public Space Protection Order introduced today we see the Jeyes Jetty alleyway gated and locked to pedestrians.

"A legacy to Bradley, this area has become a safer place for the general public.”

Cllr Anna King, Cabinet member for community safety and engagement, added: “Jeyes Jetty has come under scrutiny in recent years after a rise in anti-social behaviour in the area, which its layout and location, away from the main flow of footfall and reach of CCTV, seems to attract.

“By gating this alleyway through the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) that is in place we hope this will deter future anti-social behaviour in the area and will help to improve the quality of life for local people.”

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