Police have closed the doors on a drugs den in Bolton-le-Sands, after Lancaster Magistrates granted the closure order last week.
Magistrates heard how residents’ lives had been made a misery by anti-social behaviour taking place in and around the property in Church Brow Close.
The ‘crack house’ closure order was granted after the local neighbourhood policing team, working closely with officers involved in the recent Operation Nimrod drugs raids and supported by staff from Lancaster Housing, gathered evidence relating to the behaviour of residents at – and visitors to – the property.
Complaints from those living near by included an excessive amount of people visiting the address at all hours, abusive and threatening language being shouted at them in the street and groups congregating outside, leaving residents feeling intimidated and afraid to leave their homes.
The property has now been secured and will remain closed for three months. During this time it will be an offence under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 to remain in or enter the property. Anyone doing so is liable to up to six months’ imprisonment or a fine of up to £5,000 or both.
Speaking after the order was granted, Sgt Scott Warburton said: “This is a real victory for local residents whose lives have been blighted by the disruptive and anti-social behaviour going on at this address.
“I hope that this sends out a clear message from the police and our partner agencies that such behaviour will not be tolerated and we will use the available legislation to take action against those making residents’ lives a misery.”
• Anyone with information about drug dealing is asked to contact police on 01524 63333.