Mid Devon Council secures four Crediton property closure orders

MID Devon District Council has successfully obtained four Closure Orders on four separate properties due to anti-social behaviour, as part of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding residents and maintaining safe, welcoming communities across the district.

The Closure Orders apply to four separate properties, three at Newcombes and one at Cockles Rise, where anti-social behaviour has caused serious concerns for local residents.

It said these measures demonstrate the Council's proactive approach to addressing concerns raised by the community and working in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police, to improve quality of life for everyone.

The Closure Orders follow reports of anti-social behaviour affecting local communities in the Crediton area.

By taking decisive action through the courts, the Council says it aims to provide reassurance to residents and support safer environments for those living and working near the properties.

Councillor Jane Lock, said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on individuals, families and neighbours, and we take these issues seriously. The successful outcome of these four Closure Orders reflects the hard work of officers and partner agencies in protecting local residents. We hope this action provides reassurance to the community and sends a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Mid Devon.”

Mark Arthurs, Sector Inspector for Mid Devon said: “Our officers from the Crediton Neighbourhood Policing team have been working closely with Mid Devon District Council to problem solve issues in the Crediton area.

“These closure orders were obtained following reports of persistent antisocial behaviour at the properties. I am pleased to hear the courts have granted MDDC’s application for four closure orders, which I hope will reassure the community that action can be taken against those who cause a persistent nuisance and disorder.”

Mid Devon District Council says it remains committed to tackling anti-social behaviour wherever it occurs and to strengthening partnership working with the Police to support a coordinated response to community concerns.

The Council says it will continue to work closely with residents, partner agencies and local communities to ensure concerns are addressed and neighbourhoods remain safe and welcoming places to live.

If you are affected by ASB please call MDDC Neighbourhood Officer on 01884 255255 or email: [email protected]

• North and East Devon Magistrates’ Court made the orders on November 10.

The applications followed notices served on October 26 and were made under section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

For Flats 19 and 20 at Newcombes, the court recorded findings that on the balance of probabilities the statutory grounds relating to behaviour at the premises, serious nuisance to the public or associated nearby disorder, had been met.

The court, sitting in Exeter, found the orders were necessary to prevent the behaviour, nuisance or disorder from continuing, recurring or occurring.

The orders prohibit further entry during the three-month period and state that the occupiers must find alternative accommodation.

In relation to Flat 13 Newcombes, magistrates warned that a person commits an offence if they remain on or enter the premises and can be arrested. If found guilty of an offence, they are liable to imprisonment and/or a fine.