A property in St Albans is now off limits for three months following anti-social behaviour and suspected drug use.

The address in Sleapshyde Lane, Smallford, was subject of numerous complaints to authroties.

As a result, St Albans District Council, with the help of police, applied for a closure order at the property.

St Albans Magistrates’ Court granted the order on January 26 and will be in force until April 26.

Hertfordshire Constabulary said the occupant will be rehoused as he is vulnerable.

Anti-Social Behaviour Assistant Investigator for the police Simran Chana said: “We fully supported the council with this closure order after police were being frequently called to the address to deal with anti-social behaviour and drug use.

“The order prohibits anyone – other than St Albans council and the emergency services from entering the premises for twelve weeks. Anyone who breaches this order could be arrested, with further action taken against them.

Kellie Kelley, Community Protection Officer for St Albans City and District Council, said: “Our successful application for a closure order shows we are determined to look after our residents by taking action against crime and anti social behaviour.  The occupant has been removed and the premises sealed off so that it will no longer be a source of concern.”

“We hope this result will provide some much-needed respite from the ongoing issues suffered by neighbours and help improve their quality of life.  We hope this sends a strong message that we will not tolerate this type of behaviour.

“If you have information about suspected drug activity and anti-social behaviour in your neighbourhood, please don’t hesitate to report it to us because we will take it seriously.  I want to further reassure residents that we will continue to monitor the situation and take further action if necessary.”