Police have issued their first closure order in Thanet on a flat associated with drug activity and anti-social behaviour.

Detectives applied for the order at Dover Magistrates’ Court following concerns raised by residents about the flat in St John’s Road, Margate.

The closure order is the first made in Thanet by Kent Police following the introduction of the new powers under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

The order will last for three months from Friday, March 4, and means that it is an offence for anyone to enter the property during this time.

The penalties for breaching the order include a fine and up to 51 weeks in prison.

Detectives, supported by Thanet Community Policing Team, ensured the privately-owned property was vacated by its residents and secured against any unauthorised entry.

A sign has been placed on the door with advice that it is an offence to enter the property.

Detective constable Adam Hinton said: "There had been reports that the address was being used by people to deal or take drugs and with that came the anti-social behaviour issues including bad language, littering and intimidation.

"This sort of selfish behaviour can make people’s lives a misery..." Detective constable Adam Hinton

"Residents and those using the amenities nearby have witnessed violence and seen discarded drugs paraphernalia.

"This sort of selfish behaviour can make people’s lives a misery and we hope the work undertaken to gather a case for this order will reassure the community that we do not tolerate it and we will respond with appropriate action.

"We are grateful for the support shown by partner agencies and residents and we will continue to actively pursue orders on other properties if they are associated with ongoing incidents of anti-social behaviour or drug activity."