Coventry City Council has urged residents to raise concerns about anti-social behaviour after taking action to close a city centre flat following complaints of drug abuse and intimidation.
The Council, along with West Midlands Police and Citizen Housing, was contacted by residents in Hillman House who said their lives were being affected by the occupants of one property and suspected drug dealing.
They told of discarded needles, nitrous oxide canisters, and drug paraphernalia, and groups of people gathering outside the flats. They said they felt intimidated and were frightened by aggressive behaviour, fighting and swearing.
The cabinet member for housing who is also a ward councillor for St Michael’s Ward swiftly contacted partner agencies and a programme of action was put in place, including interviews with residents, increased police patrols, evidence gathering, warnings to those suspected of anti-social behaviour, and warrants being issued.
Arrests were made, but when the problems continued, agencies acted to secure a court order to close the flat concerned.
The Council said the closure order was a last resort, but action had to be taken to support local residents.
