In a win for local residents, Southampton magistrates have extended a closure order on a notorious drug house that has plagued the Weston community for years.
The property on Hawkley Green, which has been a hotbed of anti-social behaviour and drug-related activity, will remain sealed off until April following yesterday’s court hearing. Anyone caught entering the premises faces up to six months behind bars.
“This address has been a blight on residents for a number of years,” said Acting Police Sergeant Vincent from the Weston and Woolston Neighbourhood Policing Team. “I am really pleased that the full closure order has now been extended.”
The initial three-month closure order was granted in October 2024 after mounting complaints from neighbours. Yesterday’s extension marks a significant victory for local law enforcement in their ongoing battle against drug-related crime in the area.
The court heard that the extension was deemed necessary to prevent further criminal activity and disorder around the property. Under the terms of the order, only police and emergency services personnel are permitted to enter the premises.
“We simply won’t tolerate this type of behaviour and offending,” Sgt Vincent added. “We will work in partnership to explore every avenue to put a stop to it.”
The move comes as part of a wider crackdown on drug-related crime in Southampton’s residential areas. Police have assured local residents they will continue using all available legal powers to protect communities from the impact of drug-related anti-social behaviour.
The extension of the closure order will run until April 8th, 2025, with officers promising to maintain their tough stance on properties linked to criminal activity. Anyone witnessing suspicious activity in the area is urged to contact the Weston and Woolston Neighbourhood Policing Team.
