Hebburn flat closed to curb anti-social behaviour
The property will remain closed for three months.
A flat in Hebburn must remain closed for three months in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour in the street. Northumbria Police applied for a Closure Order on the property in Collingwood Street after gathering evidence that occupants, and visitors to the flat, were responsible for creating disorder and serious nuisance to members of the public. In January two people were arrested for assault and criminal damage connected to the property and, in February, a two further arrests were made for arson. Last September a search warrant was carried out and two people were arrested for possession of drugs. Powers to authorise dispersal orders have also been utilised in the area in an effort to quell the disorder. Sunderland Magistrates' Court granted the order earlier today (Wednesday, March 16). Officers from the Hebburn Neighbourhood Policing Team submitted evidence to the court that highlighted the extent of the anti-social behaviour that was being caused. The team were able to apply for a Closure Order to be imposed under the Anti-social behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and the flat must now remain closed for three months. Hebburn Neighbourhood Sergeant Matt Hough said: "We know anti-social behaviour linked to one particular flat in Collingwood Street has been a long-standing issue for local residents and we have received repeated calls from neighbours concerned about the issue. It is important to us that we listen and act on the concerns of our local communities and we have worked very closely with our partners at the local authority and environmental health to curb the behaviour. "We're pleased the order has been imposed and the property must now remain closed for three months as it will give local residents some reprieve from the disorder. I hope this sends a clear message about the extent of the action we will take to put a stop to anti-social and criminal behaviour which disrupts our communities. "I would like to offer my reassurance to residents in the street that we will continue to pay attention to the area and respond to their concerns and ensure anti-social behaviour in the area remains low." Councillor Tracey Dixon, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety at South Tyneside Council, said: “Protecting our communities is a priority for us and we will continue to work with our partners to take action against those who have no regard for the quality of life of their neighbours. We support this enforcement action and hope it gives some respite to local people.” To report concerns around crime and anti-social behaviour contact your local neighbourhood policing team on 101