Magistrates partially close flat over drug use

The flat on Shakespeare Avenue, New England, Peterborough, is now partially closed

Magistrates have barred people from entering a flat after complaints about violence, drug use and anti-social behaviour, police said.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary said the partial closure order meant that the flat in Peterborough was off limits to all but a few.

It said, in an online statement, that officers had asked Peterborough Magistrates' Court to make a closure after residents raised concerns.

Anyone breaking the order, which lasts until 22 November, could be jailed or fined, police said.

'Criminal offence'

Police said the order meant that only the tenant, housing association staff, and emergency and health workers could enter 18 Shakespeare Avenue, New England, Peterborough.

"Complaints from the local community had been made to police and partner agencies about drug use and related anti-social behaviour including fighting, discarding of drugs paraphernalia and people sleeping in the communal areas, as well as criminal damage and serious violence," the police statement said.

"Failure to comply with the order is a criminal offence, which could result in imprisonment for up to three months, a fine, or both."

PC Charlie Adams, from Cambridgeshire Constabulary, added: “The housing provider has been working to tackle the issues for a number of years, however these have escalated in severity and numerous incidents have been reported to ourselves in recent months, including serious violence, drug use and other forms of anti-social behaviour.

“This action has been taken to safeguard the tenant as well as provide some reassurance to neighbours that we have listened to their concerns.

"They have reported feeling unsafe in their own homes, which no-one should be made to feel.”