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.

A letter to the Council signed by ‘Concerned residents of Hillman House and members of the Coventry Community’, said: “Many residents feel anxious simply entering or leaving their own home. Elderly residents are frightened. Families are concerned for their children. Nobody should feel unsafe walking through their own city.”

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.

Councillor Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities and a St Michael’s Ward councillor, said: “We were very distressed to hear how the lives of local people were being so badly affected by this ongoing anti-social behaviour. As well as the flats themselves, the issue was having an impact on local businesses and surrounding streets.

“Together with the Police and Citizen, we worked with residents and did all we could to solve the situation, but when all else failed we had to take the unusual step of seeking a closure order of the flat through the courts.

“This is a last resort and one that is rarely taken, but the safety and welfare of local residents is paramount and we will not hesitate to take similar measures in future if needed.”

Cllr John McNicholas, Cabinet Member for Community safety and Cohesion, added: “No-one in our city should ever feel frightened to leave their home, or to walk their local streets, and we thank the residents of Hillman House and the surrounding area for having the courage to contact us and work with us to tackle this terrible case of anti-social behaviour and criminality.

“Together with Citizen and the Police, we are keen to support residents in ensuring there are no further incidents, and giving them the confidence to report any future matters. We will continue to work with them and monitor the situation.

“We would also urge any residents who are suffering through anti-social behaviour to contact us so we can support them and take the necessary action to support them.

“We want everyone to feel safe in their own homes, their community and our city, and we will do all we can to make that happen.”

Residents can report any incidents of anti-social behaviour to the Police via 101.