Police close down ‘anti social hotspots’ after months of misery for residents

Two residential properties in Bideford have been closed by court order following months of anti-social behaviour and disruption.

Full closure orders were granted by Barnstaple Magistrates Court on Tuesday, September 23 for 20 Pridham Place and 54 Pridham Place, meaning no one can enter the address for a three month period.

Police said the properties had become ‘hotspots’ for anti-social behaviour, causing ‘relentless disruption to the local community’.

READ NEXT: Meeting hears ‘yet another’ HMO could add to Bideford’s crime rate

Inspector Ewan Seer, who heads up the neighbourhood police team in Bideford, said: “We’ve been working with Torridge District Council and Westward Housing to secure closure orders on two properties on the same street in Bideford.

“This is the first time we’ve utilised closure orders on residential properties in Bideford, which really demonstrates the extent of the persistent disruption that was caused to the local community.

“Closure orders allow us to escalate the eviction process and form part of our commitment to tackling antisocial behaviour in North Devon and we will continue to work with partner organisations to make sure people living and working in the area feel safe.”

READ NEXT: Ilfracombe considers extended crackdown on drinking-linked anti-social behaviour

Councillor Philip Hackett, lead member for public health and community at Torridge District Council, added: “No one should have to live with fear or ongoing disruption in their home or neighbourhood. This order has been put in place to protect residents and bring peace back to the area.

"We hope this reassures the public that we simply won’t tolerate this type of behaviour and offending and will work in partnership to explore every avenue to put a stop to it. Tackling anti-social behaviour is a key priority for the council and our police partners and we are prepared to take robust action.”

Anyone with concerns or information about antisocial behaviour should report it to police online using the reporting tool on the force website at https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk or by calling 101.