A residential property in Arkwright, Derbyshire has been boarded up following a series of complaints from local residents regarding persistent anti-social behaviour and criminal activity. The house located at 54 Hardwick Drive was subject to a closure order that prohibits any tenants or others from entering or residing there for a period of three months. This action was taken by North East Derbyshire District Council after multiple reports detailing incidents of harassment, suspected drug dealing, loud music, and continual dog barking.
The decision to seal the property came after a hearing at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates' Court on Friday, April 4. The tenant, identified as Zoey Aitken, was implicated in the issues that plagued the neighbourhood. Residents voiced their frustrations in statements to the court, labelling Hardwick Drive as “Crack Corner” or “Rehab Corner”, with some describing the ongoing situation as "a living hell" and "a total nightmare."
Cllr Nigel Barker, the leader of North East Derbyshire District Council, commented on the situation, emphasising that residents should not have to endure such troubling behaviour that disrupts their quality of life. He added, "We will not hesitate to take action when we are made aware of it and would encourage anyone in our district with concerns about anti-social behaviour to get in touch.”
The initiative to close the property was undertaken by the council's community safety team in partnership with Derbyshire police, following a local resident's request for an anti-social behaviour case review. Inspector Matt Brown of Derbyshire police noted that the closure order stemmed from numerous reports highlighting anti-social behaviour along with drug-related crime in the area. He assured the community that the police will continue to collaborate with partners, such as the council, to ensure public safety and to combat such unacceptable behaviour.
As a further course of action, the property will be closed for three months, during which time the landlord, Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing, is expected to initiate legal proceedings to reclaim possession of the property. This measure intends to address the various concerns raised by residents and to restore peace to the community.
Source: Noah Wire Services