A flat linked to drug dealing and anti-social behaviour has been closed down and boarded up by police.

People living near the flat, in Phoenix Court, Fox Street, Gillingham, had told police the home was a haven for drug dealing and the disorder associated with it.

Following a number of complaints the police applied to Dartford Magistrates’ Court to approve a closure notice to shut down the property and it was boarded up the same afternoon.

The flat is managed by housing provider Amicus-Horizon, who supported the police in getting the closure notice.

PC Bryan Ward said: “The community in Gillingham made a number of complaints about suspected drug dealing and anti-social behaviour in relation to the property.

“We take these reports extremely seriously as drug dealing can negatively affect the quality of people’s lives.

“We suspect that the property had been used as a base for the dealing of class A drugs in Medway such as crack cocaine and heroin.

“We are pleased that we have been able to put an end to the illegal activity at the address and restore the quality of life and safety of local residents.

“I would like to thank the community for their support in helping to close this house.

“The information that they supply is vital for us to get results such as this."

Carol Huckerby from Amicus-Horizon added: “We are committed to resolving all cases of anti-social behaviour and we take such matters very seriously.

“This case was affecting many of our residents and we are glad that the problem has now been resolved.”

Police have set up a dedicated phone line to take calls in relation to suspected drug activity in Medway. The number is 01634 792515.