Police close down property in St Leonards using new anti-social behaviour powers

The privately-let flat in Tower Road West was closed in response to numerous reports of drug taking, nuisance and disorder from the address.

Police closed the property on March 4. It is the first closure under the new powers to be granted in Hastings and St Leonards. Notice was served on the tenant on March 2 and the property was boarded up by police on March 4. The application, under Section 76 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, was presented in Hastings Magistrates Court on March 4. The district judge authorised closure for the maximum period of three months. Inspector Dan Russell, of Hastings Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “The closure of this problem property is a major relief to the other families living in the same building. The impact of the disorderly behaviour of the tenant and those visiting the flat affected all those living within vicinity causing misery on an almost a daily basis. This closure sends a clear message that this extreme behaviour will not be tolerated in our town.”