Kempston Gardens, Bolton home closed by court order

The full closure order will apply at the home at Kempston Gardens in Halliwell after police officers gathered evidence from the community about their concerns.

Police and council officers say that people living nearby have been badly impacted by alleged criminal activity but that their raising their concerns has paid off.

Halliwell’s Cllr Rabiya Jiva said: “There were a lot of concerns raised about this property.

“I know that sometimes for communities it can feel like things aren’t happening but we need to work together with our partners, with the police and with Be One Homes to make sure we get results.

Cllr Rabiya Jiva speaking at a meeting with police officers, council officials and members of the public (Image: Newsquest)

“I have requested that this property is now marked up as being for a sensitive let to make sure that these concerns are not a problem in future.”

She added: “These things can take time, they do not happen with the flip of a switch, but we have to follow the legal procedures, and I would like to thank all the residents who have raised this.”

Greater Manchester Police say that they worked together with the council and with Be One Homes to build a “robust case” to shut the flat down.

Sergeant Zach Keneally, from the Bolton Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a devastating impact on our communities. We have listened to residents across Halliwell and taken action to address these issues.

“This closure order sends a clear message that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated and we will work tirelessly to keep our neighbourhoods safe.

Kempston Gardens has long been a cause of concern (Image: Phil Taylor)

“I urge anyone who may have concerns about anti-social behaviour or criminality in their area to please speak with us.

“Your reports are incredibly important to us and the work we do, and it is thanks to the support of local residents that we are able to conduct positive work for our communities.”

Bolton Council says that action like this shows the value of working closely with partner organisations.

A spokesperson said: “The community safety team at Bolton Council welcomes the successful outcome of this closure order, which demonstrates the strength of partnership working between Bolton Council, Greater Manchester Police and Be One Homes.

“This action sends a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will continue to work together to protect our communities and ensure residents feel safe in their neighbourhoods.

“We are committed to taking robust action where necessary and supporting those affected by nuisance and disorder.”

Be One Homes, the borough’s largest housing provider, has appealed for anyone else with concerns about properties they run, to report them.

Enforcement manager Gemma Hotchkiss said: “We are committed to working in partnership to address anti-social behaviour and improve the quality of life for our residents.

“This closure order demonstrates the strength of partnership working and our shared determination to take action where individuals are causing harm to the community.

“We will continue to support residents and work closely with Greater Manchester Police and Bolton Council to ensure neighbourhoods remain safe and welcoming places to live.”

Reports can be made by calling Be One Homes on 01204 328000 or online.