A SECOND set of iron gates will be installed at an Oxford college after a ‘sharp rise’ in bike thefts.

St Peter’s College has applied to Oxford City Council for permission for the new pair of gates at its Chavasse Building.

The college also said the existing gates in New Inn Hall Street had been damaged and would be repaired as part of the plan.

A report revealed damage has occurred because the gates were not designed to be regularly opened and closed.

The new ‘lightweight’ set of gates will mean the existing gates can stay open daily.

The city council will decide on the application by July 12.