Police have closed a home under court powers after repeated reports of anti-social behaviour.

Officers said they had received regular complaints of nuisance activity at the property in in Norfolk Road, Gravesend between March 2018 to July this year.

This included drug-dealing, criminal damage and verbal abuse to neighbours over the more than two-year period.

Finally they applied to Medway Magistrates Court for an order to close the building, which was granted yesterday.

The order, which will be in place for three months, prohibits anyone from attending or living in the address – with the only exception being the landlord and authorised contractors.

Failure to comply with the order risks arrest, imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

Sgt Paul Diddams, from Gravesham’s Community Safety Unit, said: "The woman living at this address knowingly and willingly allowed her home to be used by various people who committed anti-social behaviour while in and around the property, causing those living nearby to be fearful and unsettled.

"We made repeated efforts to engage with the woman, but this was unsuccessful, which meant that the community continued to be subjected to unacceptable nuisance.

"The court order ensures the offending individuals are removed from the area. While removing someone from their home is a robust step, the action taken is entirely proportionate.

"I am confident the community will benefit from this order and I would encourage anyone affected by similar issues to report them to us via our website or by calling 101."

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