Closure order for Northampton flat after drug issues and people seen defecating in lift
A closure order has been issued on a Northampton flat, after ongoing drug issues, as well as issues with people urinating and defecating in the lift.
The flat in St Stephen’s House was issued a three-month closure order, after Northamptonshire Police, West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Partnership Homes were able to secure the order from Northampton Magistrates’ Court on October 30.
According to Northamptonshire Police, the flat had seen ongoing reports of drug dealing and drug use. People were often seen using drugs in communal areas and urinating and defecating in the lift. Drug paraphernalia was often also often found in communal areas.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Rod Williams said: “The misery this flat was causing to other residents was completely unacceptable and I am pleased we have been able to put a stop to it. The relief this news has brought to many people who live in the surrounding area is exactly why we come to work every day.
“We’re here to listen to and help our residents, and I am so pleased for their sake that we have been able to gather the evidence required to stop this address from continuing to blight the local community.
“Cases like this show how important it is for residents to let us know about issues in their area - even if you are too scared to make a formal statement, the evidence you give us via your reports allows us to build a bigger picture so we can work with partners to take collective action on your behalf.”
Councillor Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing at West Northamptonshire Council added: “This closure order is the result of strong partnership working and I would like to thank everyone involved for their commitment to tackling the unacceptable behaviour that has caused so much distress to local residents.
"No one should have to endure the kind of disruption and unpleasantness that this property brought to the community. We hope this action brings much-needed relief and marks the beginning of a safer, more peaceful environment for everyone living in the area.
“We encourage residents to report any anti-social behaviour or criminal activity so we can work together to take action and protect our communities.”
The flat has now been fully boarded up.