VISITORS have been warned they will be arrested if they enter an address in Poole which has been made the subject of a closure order by the courts.

While the occupant is allowed to stay at 120 Knowlton Road, Canford Heath, all other people are not permitted.

BCP Council, Dorset Police and Poole Housing Partnership worked together following issues of anti-social behaviour, drug misuse and disorder.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “We have been working in partnership with Poole Housing Partnership and Dorset Police to address issues of serious drug related nuisance and disorder relating to the property at 120 Knowlton Road.

“The partial closure order is in place for three months, with access to the property being prohibited to any person except the resident and support agencies.

“This is a great example of agencies working in partnership to protect victims of nuisance and disorder.

“We will always use the tools and powers available to us and we hope by obtaining this order, it shows we will act on issues raised by residents to reduce anti-social behaviour in our communities.”

The partial closure order was secured at a Poole Magistrates’ Court hearing on Wednesday, May 18.

Bournemouth Echo: The council's application was made at Poole Magistrates' CourtThe council's application was made at Poole Magistrates' Court (Image: PA)

Officers from the neighbourhood policing team worked with the other authorities to compile evidence to put before the court after concerns were reported by the community.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: “Dorset Police remains committed to taking action in response to concerns of this nature that are raised by residents.

“We would encourage anyone who has concerns about anti-social behaviour in their community to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or call us on 101.”

Authorities can secure closure orders for addresses through section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

BCP Council and Dorset Police have continued to use these court powers in an attempt to tackle anti-social behaviour issues in residential areas.

The orders can last for up to three months. If an extension is sought, the authorities must go back to court and make a new application.

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