Hellraiser kicked out

Tuesday February 23, 2010

The council and police have successfully closed a property that was responsible for 15 per cent of all the crimes committed on the Cleverly Estate, Shepherds Bush.

Numerous residents had complained to the police about the antisocial behaviour emanating from property.

So, the police applied to the courts to get the Peabody Housing Association property closed.

The application was made under Part 1A of the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003, which gives the Police and their partners the power to close properties on the grounds of anti-social behaviour alone.

This is the first time the legislation has been used in the Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and the case file is regarded as a benchmark for future applications.

The tenant has now admitted that her behaviour was unacceptable and has helped the police and council with their investigations.

Cllr Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime and street scene, said: “I am pleased that we have been able to work closely with the police to close this property. We will continue to use every tool available to combat crime and antisocial behaviour in Hammersmith & Fulham.”

PC Gareth Davies from the Wormholt & White City Safer Neighbourhoods Team said: "We are very proud to lead the way in the use of this legislation. It requires people to take responsibility not only for their own behaviour, but for others living at or visiting their home. This latest power further enables the Police and our partners to take the fight to the doorstep, and beyond, of those who live their lives with no regard or respect for others. We will not tolerate it."

Peabody Community Safety Officer Laura England said: “Anti-social behaviour is unacceptable in our communities and we will move swiftly to help put an end to it. Working jointly with the Police and Hammersmith & Fulham Council, we’re thrilled to have achieved this closure order. Those in the local community will now be able to enjoy their homes in peace and feel safe again.”