News-Closure order served on residential property linked to persistent anti-social behaviour

These are just some of a catalogue of anti-social behaviour incidents that led us to successfully apply for a closure order for a residential property in Horden.

It is the first time we have secured a closure order for a residential property and the result follows extensive work by our anti-social behaviour team, neighbourhood wardens, Durham Constabulary and other partners.   

Magistrates in Newton Aycliffe heard how residents of Eleventh Street had been living in fear since the tenants of number 47 moved in, with some moving house to escape the frequent disturbances from the property. Others described having lived on the street for many years without any problems and being too frightened to confront the couple in case of reprisals.

As well as loud music, shouting and a barking dog throughout the day and night, the council and Durham Constabulary received reports of threatening behaviour, cars being damaged and associates of the couple arriving at the property and kicking down doors and smashing windows. Flies, rats, and bad smells were also reported due to rubbish and dog faeces in the back yard and within the property itself.

The closure order denies access to the premises for three months and can be extended. Anyone who enters the house will be committing an offence and could face a fine, imprisonment or both.

Taking action to make life better

It is just one of the ways we and our partners are working to make life better for residents across the county. Improving housing and tackling anti-social behaviour are key priorities, and, in Horden, more than £10 million is being invested to help transform the Numbered Streets.

The court heard that the couple had declined all offers of support from social workers and other agencies and were not engaging with their landlord, who had started eviction proceedings. The pair also failed to co-operate and comply with requests made by anti-social behaviour intervention officers, which resulted in them receiving multiple community protection warnings and enforcement notices.

Both Durham Constabulary and the social workers involved supported our decision to issue a closure notice and apply for a three-month closure order under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

We are now discussing alternative housing options for the couple.

Reassuring residents

Joanne Waller, our head of community protection, said: "This is the first time we have had to use these powers on a residential property, but we had to take serious action in this case. Not only were the tenants making life a misery for their neighbours, but the living conditions inside the house were so bad it was in their own interests to leave.

"There is a strong sense of community in Horden, and we are working closely with residents and organisations through the Horden Together partnership to improve the lives of those who live and work in the village.

"Nobody should have to live in fear, and we hope this closure order reassures residents that we take anti-social behaviour very seriously and will use all the available tools and powers to make our communities safer."

Inspector Phil Carter, of the Neighbourhood Police Team, said: "We have worked in close partnership with the council in securing a closure order for this property associated with persistent anti-social behaviour. In support of this action, the police assisted in the gathering of key evidence and provided necessary resources to ensure the success of the application. This collaborative approach has resulted in the closure of the property, helping to mitigate the impact of disruptive behaviour and enhance the safety and well-being of the local community.

"We and our colleagues at Durham County Council will continue to offer support to the victims affected by the anti-social behaviour associated with this property, ensuring their concerns are addressed and their safety is prioritised. Additionally, we remain committed to working closely with the council and other partners to prevent further incidents and maintain a safe and secure environment for the community."

Investing in Horden's future

We are investing £6.2 million into transforming the Numbered Streets. A further £4.5 million has been awarded by the North East Combined Authority through the Brownfield Housing Fund.

In January, the first phase of the Horden Masterplan was approved. This will see new houses and bungalows built, with the potential for existing properties to be remodelled in Third, Fourth and Fifth Streets.