A city in Shanxi is dismantling gates outside government offices after discipline inspectors determined there were too many hurdles between citizens and officials.

Barriers at some 65 government units in Shuozhou have now been removed, local media reported Wednesday. The new rule was implemented after the city’s discipline inspection committee responded to public complaints of bureaucratic red tape by making unannounced visits in April.

Limited access to officials is an ongoing and well-documented problem in China. Citizens who feel their complaints are inadequately handled by local cadres can file petitions with higher levels of government — though this often puts them at risk of public shaming or even violence. (Image: Weibo)