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Magistrates have placed a closure order on a house in Rhymney after an application by Gwent Police and housing association United Welsh.

The house, in Benjamin Court, was the focus of antisocial behaviour and suspected drug use.

A closure order was obtained at Cwmbran Magistrates Court on Friday, June 11, the terms of which prohibits anyone from entering the property for a minimum period of three months except for United Welsh and contracted partners.

United Welsh’s Neighbourhood Safety team supported the Gwent Police application of a closure order.

Sian Weeks, Neighbourhood Safety Manager for United Welsh said: “Everyone has the right to live peacefully in their own homes without having to suffer from the stress caused by anti-social behaviour. We are glad that the closure order will now bring some relief to neighbours and the local community in Benjamin Court.

“We will continue to work with partners to tackle anti-social behaviour in our communities and urge any United Welsh tenants to please not suffer in silence and contact us.”

Under the terms of the order, anyone who is found in the property with no legal entitlement to be there are at risk of being arrested. Breach of a closure order carries a prison sentence of up to six months or a fine of up to £5,000, or both. The order will remain in place until, September 11, 2021.

Gwent Police Crime and Disorder Reduction Officer PC Greg Turley said: “I hope the closure order sends a message to those who engage in antisocial behaviour and criminal activity that we have a variety of tools available to deal with them, and reassures local residents that we will always listen to their concerns and take the most appropriate action necessary to ensure quality of life for our communities.”