Closure order granted on Plymouth house
A closure order has been granted on a house in Plymouth after repeated complaints of anti-social behaviour, violence and drug dealing.
Plymouth Magistrates granted the order on 86 Keat Street after ongoing issues which made life difficult for neighbours. The order was applied for by Plymouth City Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team following an approach by Devon and Cornwall Police, and was supported by both the police and Plymouth Community Homes.
The occupant of the flat is Hannah Slee. There were numerous complaints from local residents with regard to considerable anti social behaviour, violence, drug use and supply. The Anti-Social Behaviour Team worked with the local community and undertook a number of interviews with local people who clearly evidenced disorderly behaviour arising from the flat as well as several complaints in respect of drugs and noise over a prolonged period of time.
Councillor Dave Downie, Cabinet Member for Safer and Stronger Communities for Plymouth City Council, said: “The court’s decision to grant this closure order at Keat Street sends out a strong message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Plymouth. I would like to thank Plymouth Community Homes and Devon and Cornwall Police for their support as it shows what can happen when everyone works together.
“I would particularly like to say a special thank you to the local residents, who have shown great courage in coming forward to give evidence about the anti-social behaviour they have been experiencing. We are pleased to be able to work together with people in the local community to respond to their concerns in this way.”
Inspector Sean Harris of Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Today’s closure order demonstrates that police and partner organisations will always work together to take positive action against antisocial behaviour.
“The new Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act helps us build on the solid foundations we have in Plymouth and strong history of partnership working and we will continue to work jointly with the council and PCH to tackle any reports of problems.
“Antisocial behaviour significantly impacts people’s quality of life. If anyone is suffering similar problems within their neighbourhood we would urge them not to suffer in silence and to come forward to talk to police or report concerns anonymously trough Crimestoppers.”
Steve Ford, Head of Homes and Neighbourhoods for Plymouth Community Homes, said: “We work hard with our residents to resolve any problems and a closure order is always a last resort for us when all other options have been exhausted.
“However, anti-social behaviour can blight the lives of residents and we are keen to make sure that all our tenants feel safe and happy in their homes.
“We’d like to thank the local residents who gave evidence so that the legal action could go ahead, resulting in a safer community.”
