A HOUSE has been boarded up after a court heard how anti-social behaviour and drug activity was making neighbours' lives 'a misery'.

Portsmouth Magistrates Court agreed that the three-bedroom council house in Parklands Close, Gosport could be sealed. 

This came after an application for a closure order was made by Gosport Borough Council working with the police. 

The order bans entry for three months, and anyone disobeying it can be fined and/or jailed.

Cllr Tony Jessop, who chairs the council's Housing Board, said: "We asked the court for this order to protect people living in the area from an ongoing risk of drug-related crime, nuisance and disorder, which has been causing them distress and anxiety.

"Council and police officers have had reports of drugs being used at the house, suspected drug-users there day and night, and increasing amounts of nuisance and disorder. Officers have also witnessed anti-social behaviour first-hand.

"There have also been allegations of violent behaviour, dog-related nuisance and breaches of Covid regulations.

"We hope this closure order will give neighbours some peace and allow them to have some enjoyment of their homes and gardens. We're seeking to evict the tenant permanently, as soon as possible."

Inspector Matt Wake, of Hampshire Constabulary added that tackling drug-related harm is a "priority" in Gosport.