District Council secures Closure Order to tackle persistent anti-social behaviour in Newark

Helen Allum of 39 Apple Tree Close has been issued with a partial Closure Order after numerous complaints from neighbours. Around six months after taking ownership, the District Council, Nottinghamshire Police and Nottingham Community Housing Association began receiving reports of repeated disturbances, including multiple visitors to the property at all hours and suspected drug-related activity.

Through a joint investigation by the Police and District Council, individuals known for criminal behaviour, particularly linked to drug dealing and drug use, were identified as regularly visiting the address.

A Closure Order is designed to provide immediate relief for the community from anti-social behaviour (ASB) originating from a property. It is a criminal offence to enter or remain on premises in breach of a Closure Notice or Closure Order without reasonable excuse, punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both.

Miss Allum has been issued a partial Closure Order, meaning she can remain in the property, but any other person accessing it, except organisations exempted by the Order, will be committing a criminal offence.

Councillor Paul Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Community Relations at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Residents deserve to feel safe and secure in their homes, and we will not tolerate behaviour that disrupts our communities. I am glad to see that a partial Closure Order has been granted to this property following continuous reports of disrupting behaviour – it is a clear demonstration of our commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour head-on and ensuring those who engage in criminal activity face the consequences of their actions.

"Our partnership with Nottinghamshire Police and housing providers is crucial in delivering swift and effective solutions. By working together, we can restore confidence among residents and create an environment where people feel proud to live.”

Inspector Charlotte Ellam, District Commander for Newark and Sherwood, said: “This property has sadly become a bit of a magnet for antisocial behaviour and has caused multiple issues for neighbouring residents.

“Numerous complaints have been received about people visiting the address at all hours of the night for reasons we suspect to be linked to drug activity.

“This is simply not acceptable, so we’re hopeful the closure order granted here will help provide some much-needed relief for the community from the ASB originating from this property.”