How would you baby proof alcove under TV

[someladdersandsnakes]

So in my living room the TV is mounted on the chimney breast, and underneath it where there would be a fireplace, there is instead an alcove with shelves and this is where we have the virgin box, router, consoles etc. How would you baby proof this? We don't want a fireguard because the room is small and we wouldn't want anything protruding too much into the floor space. Would some kind of mesh work if nailed on? But it would have to be secure if baby pulled on it.

Can you box off the alcove or put a cupboard door on it and a safety latch on the door?

Ow wide is it? Could you put an ottoman in front of it? We bought a couple of £20 ones from Dunelm and they were godsends when ours (now 12 months) was learning to stand and move about. Just the right height to pull himself up and play but wide enough to prevent most funny business.