Alley
Alleys are generally less well-maintained than roads. An alley or alleyway is a type of road found in densely populated urban areas. Alleys usually run between or behind buildings to allow for delivery and collection. Originally they were required for waste collection, delivery of coal (before the widespread adoption of central heating), or rear access for fire engines and parking. The reduced usage of alleys has resulted in their decline. Under use, poor maintenance, poor night time illumination and narrow width has contributed to an increase in anti-social or illegal activities such as:
- dumping of rubbish
- sexual assault
- consensual sexual behaviour and/or prostitution
- urination
- burglary
- robbery
- illicit drug use
- murders (See Gail Miller)