Police and partners have stepped in and successfully secured a closure order on a Watford property previously linked to drug crime and anti-social behaviour.

An address on Latimer Close will be off-limits for three months following a hearing at St Albans Magistrates’ Court today, Thursday, April 4th. This is the result of a collaborative effort between the police, Watford Borough Council, and Sanctuary Housing Association.

This closure order comes after reports of sustained anti-social behaviour and drug dealing at the property, which has been disrupting the lives of nearby residents. The order prohibits anyone from entering the address except for emergency services or housing representatives. Breaching the order is an offence.

This is a positive outcome for the local community and demonstrates the effectiveness of partnership working between the police, council, and housing association. Residents can now expect some peace and quiet after enduring a period of disruption.

Inspector Dan Jones, from the Watford Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We and our partners are delighted to have achieved a three-month closure order on this property, which is the fourth live closure currently in place across Watford.

“We continue to work together to improve the quality of life for our residents, because no one should have to endure living close to those who commit crime and chronic anti-social behaviour.

“Proactive intervention such as this is vital to protect the vulnerable members of our community, bring offenders to justice and rid our streets of illegal drugs and weapons. We hope this latest development shows that we are committed to doing everything in our power to prevent violence and criminality from blighting our communities.”

If you suspect drug-related crime in your local area, report it online, via online web chat or by calling the non-emergency number 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.