A three-month closure order has been secured at Cordwainer House in Northampton following persistent reports of anti-social behaviour, drug-related activity and criminality which were causing significant distress to residents.

The order was granted at Wellingborough Magistrates’ Court on the 11^th August and will remain in place until the 10^th November. The closure order means that only residents and their visitors can enter the building – anyone else coming into the building could be arrested.

The action follows numerous reports of drug dealing, drug use within communal areas, criminal damage and ongoing anti-social behaviour. Residents also reported people regularly shouting, banging, and repeatedly buzzing other flats to gain entry to the building at all hours.

Following concerns raised by residents, the Tenancy Compliance Team at Northamptonshire Partnership Homes worked closely with the Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team to gather evidence and pursue enforcement action. As a result, an application was made by the police to the court under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, which resulted in the closure order being order granted for three months.

Ryan Surridge, Head of Neighbourhoods at Northamptonshire Partnership Homes said:

“This result demonstrates the effectiveness of partnership working in tackling issues that have a serious impact on residents’ quality of life.

We want to reassure residents that we are committed to taking action where necessary and will continue to work closely with Northamptonshire Police to address anti-social behaviour.

We encourage anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour to report it, as working together with residents is key to helping us keep our neighbourhoods safe.”

Grace Manwaring, Anti-Social Behaviour Sergeant from Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“The behaviour associated with this location was having a significant impact on residents and the wider community, with reports of drug-related activity, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour causing ongoing concern for those living nearby.

Closure orders are only sought when all other avenues have been explored and require close partnership working to achieve. This outcome demonstrates our commitment to tackling issues that have a serious impact on local people and helping communities feel safe.

I hope this order provides reassurance to residents and allows those affected to enjoy a greater sense of peace and security in their homes and neighbourhood.

I’d like to thank everyone who came forward with information, as well as our partners at Northamptonshire Partnership Homes for their support throughout this process.”

Anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour in their neighbourhood is encouraged to report it to NPH online here, by calling the Contact Centre on 0300 330 7003 or in person at one of our drop in events or the One Stop Shop at One Angel Square.

If you’d prefer you can also provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. In an emergency, always call 999.