Council takes action to curb serious anti-social behaviour
Thursday 22 August 2024: Hillingdon Council has obtained two closure orders this month following reports of serious incidents of anti-social behaviour, criminal activity and drug use linked to properties in the borough.
The first order was granted on 7 August for a council-owned property in Uxbridge after the court reviewed statements from the council, police and witnesses describing incidents, which included a stabbing, drug dealing, noise and public nuisance, and fly-tipping which were distressing and impacting the quality of life of residents in the area. There were also concerns raised by the council and police regarding the tenant's welfare and safety.
The second order was granted by the court on 14 August for a property owned by not-for-profit housing provider Notting Hill Genesis, in South Ruislip. The court heard reports from the council and police about incidents of theft, drug dealing and use, damage to property, noise nuisance and anti-social behaviour by the tenant and people visiting the property.
The orders mean no one can enter the properties for three months, except for the landlord, police, other emergency services or utility providers. Anyone else who enters or stays on the premises without a reasonable excuse can be fined, imprisoned or both.
Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Residents' Services, said: "While these are isolated cases, and the majority of residents and their visitors are respectful of each other, we are aware that anti-social behaviour and criminal activity can occur and that when it's persistent, it can be the cause of great distress to neighbours and the wider community.
"I hope that these cases serve as a warning to others, that we continue to work very closely with our partners in the police to pursue the toughest enforcement action possible to stamp out illegal activity and any anti-social behaviour that puts our residents' safety at risk."
To report any anti-social behaviour concerns, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/safety.
