Crack house shut down after public outcry
Reporter: RICHARD HOOTON
Date published: 16 April 2010
POLICE have closed a crack house in Oldham after complaints that drugs were blighting the local community.
Oldham magistrates granted a closure order for the property in Featherstall Road North, Westwood, after information was provided by residents and backed by Oldham Council and police.
Oldham’s new top cop Tim Forber showed a hands-on approach as he attended yesterday while the house was being boarded up.
Police say the property was a significant problem, with residents disturbed by drug dealing, noise and serious nuisance, while needles and condoms left near play areas had put children at risk.
Powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act allow police, working in consultation with local authorities, to tackle crack houses and other locations that cause disorder and serious disruption to the community through association with Class A drugs.
Officers from the Neighbourhood Priority Team visited the premises along with staff from Community Safety Services and First Choice Homes. Shutters were placed over all doors and windows and large notices stuck on explaining why the house had been closed.
The closure order is effective for three months and anyone who enters the house is committing an offence and can be arrested.
Chief Supt Forber said: “Information about the premises came as a result of people attending PACT (Partners and Community Together) meetings. If people do tell us about problems in the community we will act and this is a good example.
“People are sick of anti-social behaviour in their community and clearly want us to do something about it. If we find out about something we will act. We hope this encourages more people to come to PACT meetings and tell us about their concerns.
“This is also an example of police working in partnership with registered social landlords and we are resolute we won’t tolerate people using drugs in this house or the area.”
Sgt Trevor Harrison said: “The supply and use of drugs from residential properties has a major impact on neighbourhood life.
“The property is surrounded by many family homes and Westwood Primary School is located near by and the area is visited by school children making their way to and from school.
“The closure will stop the anti-social behaviour associated with the address and allow a peaceful quality of life that the wider community is entitled to. Without the closure notice, disorder and serious nuisance would definitely continue.
“This closure would not have been possible without the support of the local community, council and First Choice Homes. I would like to thank wholeheartedly everyone who has provided information to enable us to shut down this crack house.”
Lorraine Kenny, anti-social behaviour team leader for Community Safety Services, said: “The behaviour which occurred in and around this address has impacted on the quality of life for many residents in this area and has put the children who attend Westwood Primary School at risk of harm.
“Community Safety Services will continue to work with our partners to take action against individuals who engage in anti-social behaviour. We would like to thank the residents who have had the courage to come forward and work with us.”
Anyone with information about crime or anti-social activity is asked to contact GMP on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111.
