Closure orders secured on two properties in Hartlepool village

Two houses in the village of Greatham, near Hartlepool, have had Closure Orders placed on them following sustained antisocial and criminal behaviour at both properties.

Teesside Magistrates granted the orders on 17 and 27 High Street following an application from the multi-agency Hartlepool Community Safety Team.

Both properties are owned by the Greatham-based Hospital of God which worked closely with the community safety team to secure the orders.

The court heard that the tenants of both properties, along with frequent visitors, were involved in the same antisocial and criminal behaviour, including drug dealing, parties with loud music, shouting in the street and banging on doors.

Councillor Brenda Harrison, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “We cannot allow this kind of behaviour to ruin the lives of law-abiding residents, so I’m pleased that the magistrates have granted the Closure Orders.

“It is important that we send out a clear message that antisocial and criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.”

Hartlepool MP and Chair of the Safer Hartlepool Partnership Jonathan Brash added: “I’m very pleased to see this tough action. People in Hartlepool have a right to live in peaceful, safe communities and this should be a warning to all those who threaten that right - we will come after you. Crime and antisocial behaviour will never be tolerated and I’ll back the strongest possible actions to protect Hartlepool people.”

Chief Inspector Andy Liddell of Hartlepool Neighbourhood Team said: “Drug dealing from properties in residential areas can make people’s lives a misery. Nobody should have to live with the antisocial problems that come with drug dealing in the community.

“The information we receive from the public on drug dealing activity enables us to apply for warrants or Closure Orders and deal with the issue. We would ask anyone with information on drugs in their neighbourhood to contact us on 101 or online at www.cleveland.police.uk "