Police statement following Southport drug den closure order

Merseyside Police was today, Friday 8 July, granted a closure order for a block of flats in Southport, following reports of drug activity and antisocial behaviour.

The order was granted for eight flats at 15 Talbot Street, by South Sefton Magistrates Court, and will remain in place until Saturday 8 October 2016.

The orders were applied for by the local Neighbourhood policing team in response to community intelligence in relation to the supply of drugs.

Superintendent Dawn McNally said: “By liaising with local councillors and residents evidence was gathered and collated by our officers over a period of time. This was presented to the court and the order was granted.

“The complaints received included incidents of anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and drug taking linked to the address and people calling there.

“The order was approved in court and means that nobody can visit the address other than the owner. Anyone, other than those specified in the order, found to be on the premises will be subject to arrest.

“The order will run for three months and will be reviewed by officers at its conclusion.

“I want to assure our communities that we will continue to target offenders and any properties associated with them who continue to cause problems for the community, and will do this using all lawful powers available to us in order to make Sefton a safer and more peaceful place to live.

“This closure order was only made possible due to the assistance of the local community, and the hard work and diligence of our officers, and we will continue to be robust in tackling criminal activity and anti-social behaviour.

“I would encourage any members of the community who have any information to call us via our 101 number or through Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”