A woman has been left housebound in fear amid reports of drug-dealing gangs, attempted break-ins and vandalism near her home.

The resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said the cul-de-sac Longcroft in Watford - which predominantly homes over 50s - has been plagued by youths since 2019.

She claims the problem has worsened since June and said she is disappointed with police and Watford Community Housing for not doing enough to tackle it.

“I and the residents have reported these issues to WCH," she said. “They have a duty of care to us. This has upset my whole life.

Watford Observer: Windows have been damaged in the storage sheds. Picture: NewsquestWindows have been damaged in the storage sheds. Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

“The youths have tried to intimidate me and my neighbours.

“It has affected me to the point where I feel I can’t go out to put my washing up and I worry about going out in the evenings because of the gangs.”

She claimed to have been made aware of attempted break-ins and said roofs, windows and doors of storage sheds have been damaged by teenagers climbing on them. 

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The woman, who has lived on the road for eight years, added that residents have seen drugs being dealt by gangs, often down footpaths leading to other roads.

A 60-strong petition has reportedly been sent to WCH demanding CCTV, anti-climb paint and spikes to be installed, as well as repairs to all the damage.  

She believes such measures will deter gangs from the road.

Watford Observer: The footpaths leading out of the close have been used by the gangs, said the resident. Picture: NewsquestThe footpaths leading out of the close have been used by the gangs, said the resident. Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

A WCH spokesperson said it will carry out repairs and improvements but has not provided a timeframe.   

They added any incidents should be reported to the police.

The police have said they have not received reports of any break-in or burglaries in the last two months.

Watford Observer: The residents thinks the gangs are setting up home and have placed a unit with CDs in by some chairs near some sheds. Picture: NewsquestThe residents thinks the gangs are setting up home and have placed a unit with CDs in by some chairs near some sheds. Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

However, they have had calls regarding anti-social behaviour, which included suspected drug use.

Both organisations have said they are working together to ensure residents feel safe.

Watford Observer: The roofs need repairing on the sheds after the bricks have been removed. Picture: NewsquestThe roofs need repairing on the sheds after the bricks have been removed. Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

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