Order to protect Swindon resident from drug exploitation

A partial closure order has been issued for a Rodbourne address following drug-related issues which worried local people.

The order was authorised at Swindon Magistrates Court today - August 4 - for the Barnum Court address and will remain in place for three months. 
It means that only the occupant of the address is allowed to enter the premises. Anybody other than the occupant, the council, or the emergency services who enters will be committing an offence and may be arrested. 
The police confirmed they hoped the order would protect the occupant from being exploited by drug dealers in the area. 
PC Abigail Gosling said: “For several weeks, police have had regular involvement with the property – there have been multiple calls to the address regarding suspected drug dealing, drug use and anti-social behaviour. 

"This is a family-orientated area with a play park nearby – children are regularly playing in the area and we will not tolerate this kind of criminal activity, especially within such close proximity to these young children. 
"It has caused concern amongst local residents who have told police they often feel intimidated and upset by the behaviour and activity of those attending the address – this is completely unacceptable and nobody should be made to feel this way.
“I hope that news of this order will reassure local people that we are committed to tackling this kind of behaviour and will do all that we can to put a stop to it. 
"Over the next three months, we will continue to patrol the area to ensure the order is being adhered to. 
"We’d urge anyone who suspects breaches to call us on 101.”