A council tenant has been temporarily banned from his home in Blyth following a history of serious anti-social behaviour at the property which disrupted the neighbourhood and left other tenants living in fear. 
 

On September 8th  the property on Crofton Street was closed by North Northumbria Magistrates for a period of three months during which time no one is permitted to enter the property apart from authorised officers. Penalties for breaching the Closure Order include a fine or a period of imprisonment. 
 

The case was brought to court following an investigation by Anti-Social behaviour Officers from Northumberland County Council’s Housing Service, assisted by Northumbria Police. 
 

Multiple and significant complaints were made about drug dealing, serious anti-social behaviour and noise by those visiting the property.  

Local residents complained of drug dealing and drug use in the property and communal areas. There was also a particularly serious incident whereby an associate of the tenant seriously assaulted two visitors to the address. 
 

Northumberland County Councillor Gordon Stewart, cabinet member for Looking after our Communities said: 

"The county council is committed to protecting the public and tackling any behaviour which has a negative impact on the community. Residents have a right to live in their homes in peace and without fear.  
 

"We hope that this Closure Order sends out a strong message that behaviour which ruins the safety and quality of life for other people in Northumberland will not be tolerated. “ 
 

“I’ hope this positive outcome offers local residents' reassurance that their concerns around anti-social behaviour are taken seriously and we would always encourage them to report concerns to us.” 
 

The Closure Order, supported by the Police, was granted by Magistrates Court under the provisions of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.  
 

Inspector Jonathan Caisley from Northumbria Police said:  

“It is quite clear that the use of the premises has resulted in nuisance and fear to members of the public and that there has been serious disorder in and around it. 
 

“A closure order was necessary to prevent the anti-social behaviour from continuing and we are delighted that this order has now been secured. 

“We will continue to closely monitor the area, and should anyone breach this order, they will face criminal repercussions and further police action.