Southampton property served a ‘full closure’ order after drug-related harm concerns

A residential property in Southampton, connected to drug-related antisocial behaviour and drug-related harm, has been served a ‘full closure’ order following collaborative efforts by local policing teams and Sovereign Network Group (SNG).

It follows extensive police enquiries at an address on Victoria Road in the Woolston area of the City, following repeated reports from members of the public concerning drug-supply and drug-related harm issues.

Today (Wednesday 13 November), Magistrates in Southampton granted a three-month 'Full Closure Order' on the address, following an application by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary.

The closure order is a step forward for the community to ensure that individuals who are persistently involved in this type of activity cannot return to the address.

Magistrates found the closure order to be necessary to prevent the continuation of disorder and criminal offences at the address, and serious nuisance to members of the public.

Other than those who have a lawful reason to enter the address such as police, emergency services and partners, anyone else found to enter the property will be liable to arrest and prosecution, which could result in up to six months in jail, a fine or both.

Police Sergeant Vincent, who forms part of the Weston and Woolston Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We will not tolerate the sustained dealing of illegal drugs, and the associated harm that is often associated with these offences, within our local communities.

“This address has been a blight on the local community and I’m pleased to say that through the dedicated work of local officers and Southampton City Council, it has now been closed for a period of three months.

“We are grateful for the local community who have provided information to us about the issues linked to drugs supply and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to target those individuals, and their associated addresses, who remain insistent on causing harm and misery in our communities, through their involvement with drugs.

“We are also thankful to our partners – including SNG, Housing Association and Southampton City Council - whose efforts have ensured the closure of this property. It has been a very complex problem to address, but the knowledge and expertise from the various partners has achieved a long fought result for the community.

“We hope this reassures the public that we simply won’t tolerate this type of behaviour and offending, and will work in partnership to explore every avenue to put a stop to it.

“Please keep reporting information to us about ASB and drugs supply by either calling 101, or visiting the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website, as every piece of information we receive from you helps us develop the bigger picture and take action.”

Details of free drug treatment and support can be found at: https://www.southampton.gov.uk/health/tobacco-alcohol-and-drugs/drug-alcohol-action.