Closure order granted for land in Swindon due to drugs concerns

Local police in Swindon have secured a partial closure order following concerns about anti-social behaviour on a patch of land in Old Walcot.

Swindon police say they are aware of ongoing reports relating to issues, including suspected drugs activity and criminal damage, at the land referred to as the Old Pumphouse, close to Lainesmead Primary School.

Yesterday - 23 May - a partial closure order was granted at Swindon Magistrates Court which prohibits anyone, except the landowners, from entering the site.

The order will be in place for three months and anyone who enters the site will be committing an offence and may be arrested.

PCSO Tayla-JA Cutbill, from the local policing team, said: “The court has recognised the impact that this anti-social behaviour and illicit drug use is having on the local community.

“What was of particular concern was the large number of uncapped needles removed from the area, especially as the land is adjacent to a primary school.

“Officers will continue to patrol the area to enforce the order and take action if it is breached.

“We will continue to work alongside Swindon Borough Council and the landowner to find a long-term solution which will secure the land and prevent future issues.”

?The force would continue to urge people to report issues around anti-social behaviour and drugs activity to us.

Members of the public can report this by calling 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

Individuals can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.