TERRIFIED residents who live next to a reported drugs den-come-party house have welcomed a decision to shut it down, but say it has come “years too late”.

Colchester Borough Homes obtained a three-month long closure order from Colchester Magistrates’ Court to prohibit anyone from entering or remaining at 24 Chant Court in St John’s Road, Colchester.

Numerous reports of serious antisocial behaviour, including violence, threats, drug and solvent abuse, as well as noise nuisance coming from the property, triggered the closure order, which was announced on Friday.

Though the action has been welcomed by neighbours, some have said it has come too late, with the antisocial behaviour at its worst nearly ten years ago when new residents moved into the moved into the property.

One neighbour, Janet Witham, said: “The older people were terrified of leaving. One lovely lady who lived there referred to it as ‘the drugs palace’.

 

Gazette: Action – residents came forward with a community impact statement about the issueAction – residents came forward with a community impact statement about the issue (Image: Colchester Borough Homes)

 

“There were some beautiful cars which came in and out. There used to be fighting in the street and shouting, but it’s got a lot better.

“Five to eight years ago, it was awful – really, really bad.

“This is years too late.”

Mrs Witham, who has lived in St John’s Road since the 1970s, said people would avoid going down a nearby alleyway because of suspicious activity nearby.

She continued: “I knew people who wouldn’t go down the folly.  I used to pass them and say ‘Hello!’ and they all looked shocked and answered me nicely.

“I wanted to show I wasn’t scared of them.”

 

Gazette: Team – Colchester Borough Homes's anti-social behaviour team Mick Hymas and Paul Butcher Team – Colchester Borough Homes's anti-social behaviour team Mick Hymas and Paul Butcher (Image: Colchester Borough Homes)

Colchester Borough Homes said residents came forward with a community impact statement to explain how the antisocial behaviour had affected their lives.

Chief executive Philip Sullivan, Colchester Borough Homes’ , said: “We take all reports of illegal and anti-social behaviour seriously and have zero tolerance for such conduct in our managed properties.

“This action underscores our commitment to working hand-in-hand with the police and other agencies to create safer communities and enhance the quality of life for Colchester residents.

“In this case, we empowered residents to reclaim control of the situation and address suspected illegal activity.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to them for their bravery and unwavering support.”