A flat in Broadstairs linked to drug-dealing and anti-social behaviour, including threats to neighbours, has been closed down after Kent Police officers secured a three-month closure order from magistrates.
The order, which was applied by officers from Thanet Community Safety Unit at Margate Magistrates’ Court on September 27, ensures access to the property in Dundonald Road is restricted.
Magistrates agreed that one named person, not linked to the anti-social behaviour, will be able to live there.
The ruling will last until December 27 and anyone other than the named individual found at the property by officers will risk arrest, a fine or even a prison sentence.
Signs have been placed on the door with advice that it is an offence to enter the flat.
Concerns had been reported by residents living nearby that suspected drug-dealing was taking place in the surrounding streets and they had seen an increase in disorder and nuisance behaviour in the area as a result.
Anti-social behaviour included threats and intimidation to residents, disturbances and noise, as well as people and vehicles arriving and waiting nearby at unusual times of the day.
Kent Police officers have spoken to local residents and business owners regarding concerns and additional patrols were also carried out in the area.
Using warrants, officers have carried out searches at the property since October 2018 and twice class A drugs have been found and seized.
Sergeant Heidi Collins from Thanet Community Safety Unit said: “This flat closure is part of our ongoing commitment to tackle anti-social behaviour.
“It will stop the property from being used for drug-related activity and we hope the community will notice an improvement in the area following the court order.
“We do not tolerate any drug dealing and it is not acceptable for residents to put up with it and the anti-social behaviour which comes with it.
“When we apply for a closure order, the court needs evidence to show that a property is linked to disorder and that it is having a negative impact on the public.
“If anyone who is experiencing something similar in their street, we urge them to report in all instances of drug dealing or nuisance behaviour by calling 101 (or 999 if a crime is in progress) or via our website, as that information will help us to build up a case to bring to the courts.”
