A FLAT in Poole has been closed by magistrates after being at “the centre of anti-social behaviour” over several months.

Among the incidents reported at Flat 1, 174 Ashley Road were alleged drug activity, large numbers of visitors to the property, loud noise late at night, verbal abuse to neighbours, and threats to the landlord.

One neighbour was so affected by the anti-social behaviour, he was forced to stay away from his home.

Borough of Poole successfully applied to the courts for a premises closure order at the privately-rented flat occupied by 42-year-old Johathan Curtis on February 6.

The order makes it a criminal offence for anyone, apart from registered or sole traders for the purpose of undertaking essential maintenance or repairs to the property, to enter the flat for three months.

Ian Cooke, safer communities manager at Borough of Poole, said: “The occupier's behaviour and that of the many visitors had a huge impact on the neighbours to such an extent that one of the residents stayed away from his home.

“We will not tolerate such behaviour and this closure order demonstrates the council’s willingness to act to protect vulnerable residents.”

The council was made aware of the issues at the property in October last year.

One Ashley Road resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Daily Echo that the problems had been escalating since the summer.

“There were 20-30 people coming and going at all hours of the day. There was fighting and shouting in the street. The police were round every day.”

The resident, who has two young children, added: “Things have settled down now. I actually felt sorry for the guy who lived there – he wanted to get rid of these people as he’d had enough.

“I’ve lived in the area for 15 years, but over the last six or seven years there have been a lot of unsavoury characters living in those flats.”

Branksome West councillor Marion Le Poidevin said: “Thankfully behaviour like this, making normal life a misery for neighbours, is very rare round here. I’m glad strong action has been taken to improve the situation. Hopefully the person responsible for the disruption will learn that such behaviour is totally unacceptable and will make sure to act more considerately in future.”

Last month, Poole magistrates closed a flat in Avenel Way after neighbours complained of loud noises coming from the property. They were also shouted and sworn at and subjected to verbal abuse from visitors to the flat.

Anyone affected by similar issues can report it via the police's non-emergency number, 101, or Poole council on 01202 633438 during working hours.