In the last few months, Warwick District Council has obtained Closure Orders against tenants who have engaged in county lines drug dealing and anti-social behaviour. Properties in Windmill Road, Clapham Terrace, Clarendon Square and Briar Close have all been closed for periods of 3 months.

Closure Orders are available to Local Authorities and the Police under Section 80 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, and are a great example of partnership working between various partner agencies and local communities.

The orders mean that nobody, not even the tenant can remain in the property during the 3-month period, and any persons found in breach of these orders can be arrested and detained for court. If found guilty, a person is liable to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 51 weeks, a £5,000 fine or both.

The authority will now consider if further action is required, such as possession proceedings.

Councillor Paul Wightman, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “For a considerable amount of time the local communities have been plagued by this type of unlawful and disruptive behaviour, so we are pleased that the magistrates saw fit to grant the orders to bring normality to the area and those affected by this.

“We would encourage residents who may be experiencing similar issues with council tenants to contact us on 01926 456129 or Warwickshire Police on 101.”