Police have this week been granted a ‘crack house closure order’ on a home in Burnham-On-Sea.
Magistrates at North Somerset Magistrates Court have approved the order for 64 Worston Lane, allowing the closure of the premises after ruling it is used in connection with ‘the production, supply or use of Class A drugs’.
The application, which was granted on Tuesday November 27th, was made following a joint investigation between Burnham Police and Homes In Sedgemoor into drug crime and related anti-social behaviour.
Following Tuesday’s hearing, the tenant has been forced to leave the property, which has been sealed.
An officer explained that anyone entering the building over the next three months will be committing an offence and can be arrested.
Notices have been put up explaining why the property has been closed down and local residents have been informed of the action taken.
Kate Rollinson, Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We hope that our actions send out a clear message that we will not tolerate any sort of behaviour that has such a negative impact on the quality of people’s lives.”
PC Ian Bartlett from Burnham Police added: “No one wants drug crime on their doorstep, it can be intimidating and a nuisance so this closure is very positive for the local community. It should serve as warning that if you break the law in this way, you could lose your home.”
“I would like to thank the community who provided us with information regarding suspected drug misuse. You are our eyes and ears. Please continue to talk to us and provide that vital information however small you may think it is.”
Dawn Lang, Chief Executive of Homes in Sedgemoor, added: “Homes in Sedgemoor do not tolerate anti-social behaviour and we are committed to ensuring our neighbourhoods are safe places to live. Working in partnership has successfully proven that action can be taken to address unacceptable behaviour.”
Residents who have information about drug crime or other suspected criminality, should contact Burnham Police by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
