Drugs den closed over machete-carrying visitors

Anyone entering the property risks arrest

A drugs den that left neighbours living in fear has been closed down.

People wearing balaclavas and carrying machetes were among a stream of visitors trying to buy drugs from a flat on Stockton's Eastport Road, Stockton Borough Council said.

Windows were smashed at number 21 and residents living nearby were unable to sleep and left feeling unsafe in their homes according to Carolyn Nice, the council's wellbeing director.

A closure order, granted at Teesside Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, was welcomed by the council and Cleveland Police.

Three month closure

Ms Nice said: "Nobody should feel unsafe in their own home, but that has been the sad reality for residents living near this flat, which has turned into a drugs den.

"It's quite shocking what has been going on, so I am delighted that the closure order can bring some much-needed respite for the innocent neighbours in the area."

Sgt Darren Williamson said: "Drugs activity is inevitably linked to serious violence and incidents of antisocial behaviour.

"The activities conducted at this property had links to organised criminality and drug dealing.

"This has caused the local community to live in fear."

The order means the tenant must not enter the property and it will be inaccessible to anyone for three months.

Anyone trying to enter the boarded-up flat could be prosecuted, the council said.