A flat has been closed by police and a housing association after neighbours reported drug abuse and antisocial behaviour.
Sutton Police officers and Wandle Housing Association closed the flat Wings Close, Sutton, using an antisocial behaviour closure order following concerns raised by residents.
The tenant, a man in his 40s, is now prohibited from entering the flat, which will remain sealed for a month.
Borough Commander Guy Ferguson said: “This is exactly the type of work I want our safer neighbourhoods teams to be involved in.
"People in Sutton have told my officers that they do not want to have criminals operating in this way.
"My officers have reacted robustly to make Sutton safer.
"It is our intention that we will respond in a forthright manner if this type of activity is found or reported to us.”
PC Steve Donovan, of Sutton Central Safer Neighbourhoods Team, said: “This is a real success for members of the local community who were too afraid to give evidence in court for fear of intimidation.
"We took their concerns to court on their behalf.
"This decision sends a clear message that communities don’t have to put up with criminal and antisocial behaviour and can enjoy a better quality of life.
"We would urge residents to report any suspicious activity to police.”
With Wandle Housing Association, police have applied for a Repossession Order on the property, which would prevent the tenant from living in the property.
Kim Wilkes, a housing officer with Wandle Housing Association, said: “This action is a good example of how partnership working, and working closely with residents, can make a difference to improve local communities.”
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