Council homes linked to crime shut down

Three council homes in Mansfield have been shut down after an investigation linked the properties to crime and anti-social behaviour.

Mansfield District Council said the activity associated with two homes at Babworth Court and one at Shireoaks Court had a "detrimental impact on neighbours" and the wider community.

The authority is now in the process of repossessing the properties so they can be re-let.

Angie Jackson, joint portfolio holder for wellbeing, health and safer communities, said: "This outcome sends a clear message that criminal activity and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated within our communities."

The council's anti-social behaviour and enforcement team worked alongside Nottinghamshire Police to secure the closure orders, which were granted by Mansfield Magistrates' Court.

The orders prohibit access to the properties and also enable the council to take action against people responsible for the issues linked to the homes.

Jackson said: "We understand the distress and disruption this type of behaviour can cause to residents, and the council remains committed to using all available powers to protect communities and ensure residents feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods."

Anne Callaghan, portfolio holder for housing, added: "Our priority is to work with residents to sustain tenancies wherever possible and closure orders and possession proceedings are measures of last resort, used only after extensive efforts to resolve serious issues through engagement, support, warnings and other interventions.

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