Herts Police have shut down a “problem address” after reports of “chronic antisocial behaviour and suspected drug use”.

The flat in Figtree Hill, off Queensway in Hemel Hempstead, was the subject of numerous calls to police and Dacorum Borough Council about the negative impact it was having on the community.

Officers gathered evidence for a full closure order application, despite the property being privately owned, which was granted yesterday (August 22).

The order prohibits anyone – other than the emergency services, and utility companies in an emergency – from entering the premises for 12 weeks.

Anyone who breaches it could be arrested, with further action taken against them.

Inspector Jeff Scott, from the Dacorum Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “We hope this result will provide some much-needed respite from the chronic issues suffered by neighbours and help improve their quality of life.

“We will not tolerate this type of behaviour so if you have information about suspected drug activity and anti-social behaviour in your neighbourhood, please don’t hesitate to report it to us because we will take it seriously.”

He added: “We will do all we can to prevent it from adversely affecting the lives of decent, law-abiding people who live nearby. I want to further reassure local residents that we will continue to monitor the situation and take further action if necessary.”