In the news: Basildon Council serves closure notice following string of anti-social behaviour incidents

This move comes after a relentless pattern of disruptive behaviour that has plagued the area for over a year. 

The closure notice was enforced under section 76 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 following more than 200 reported incidents since January 2024. These disturbances have included drug-related activity, loud visitors, shouting, and constant banging. 

On Friday 24 January 2025, the council's application for a closure order was heard in Southend Magistrates Court, where the court granted the order, barring anyone except the occupier, one designated person, or anyone approved by the council from entering the property. 

Councillor Melissa McGeorge, Basildon Council's Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement said: "Serious incidents of anti-social behaviour can pose a real risk to local communities. I hope this closure order sends a clear message that anti-social behaviour in Basildon Borough will not be tolerated and there will be consequences. Basildon Council will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary to ensure the safety of our residents." 

Basildon Council was also awarded legal costs in the sum of £200. 

Basildon Council will continue to take a hard stand against those who jeopardise the safety of local communities. In 2025, Basildon Council is committed to making our communities safer places to live, and this is just the beginning. 

We encourage anyone who experiences anti-social behaviour in Basildon Borough to report it via the council's website - Report Anti-Social Behaviour - Basildon. 

Ends 

Published Tuesday 28 January 2025