DRUG taking, persistent anti-social behaviour and "extreme nuisance" to neighbouring properties has led to an address in Bournemouth being subject to a closure order.

The exact address in the West Cliff area of the town has not been issued by Dorset Police due to safeguarding concerns, however, the order was given by the courts during a "virtual hearing".

Officers worked with BCP Council's anti-social behaviour team to tackle the issues arising from the address.

The local authority said the premises was being used by people taking Class A drugs and they were causing an "extreme nuisance to surrounding properties and the neighbourhood in general".

Councillor Lewis Allison, BCP Council cabinet member for Tourism, Leisure and Communities, BCP Council said:

“Whilst we may be in lockdown, BCP Council will continue to take action against those causing anti-social behaviour in our communities and we’re working closely with Dorset Police to keep people safe. The Courts are still operating a virtual service and we will continue to use the enforcement powers we have in such cases to protect victims of disorder”

The closure order, which was served on May 1 and runs for three months, allows the tenant to stay in the property.

BCP Council said it does not want to make anyone homeless at this time, however, the order makes it a criminal offence for anyone else to visit the property.

Neighbourhood Inspector Jon Wasey said: “Officers from the Bournemouth South Neighbourhood Policing Team have been working closely with BCP Council following reports of persistent anti-social behaviour and suspected drug-related activity at an address in the West Cliff area.

“The council led on an application for a closure notice, which has been granted by Poole Magistrates’ Court and will be in place for three months from Wednesday 29 April 2020. The order will see the premises closed for residency by anyone apart from the occupier.

“We are committed to working with our local partners at BCP Council to respond to community concerns regarding anti-social behaviour and orders such as this are just one of a number of measures we are able to use.

“It must be stressed that this follows extensive engagement and intervention work at the address prior to the application for the order.

“I hope that securing the order will improve the lives of those living in the area by removing the anti-social behaviour issues they have been facing and will also help to protect the vulnerable occupant of the address.”