Positive community feedback after problem property tackled and repossessed

We’ve had lots of positive feedback from residents and businesses in Leek following our work to repossess a property that was causing persistent issues in the area. 

Last year, we started work to tackle the issues following persistent complaints from local people around anti-social behaviour, drug use and criminality in and around the flat.

We worked hard to problem solve, working closely with local housing partners to secure a closure order at the address on 10 April this year. It was due to last for a three-month period and prevented anyone other than emergency services and agents from going inside. 

But, we didn’t stop there. With the main concerns of local residents and businesses at the forefront of our focus, we were able to secure an extension of the order on 8 July, now lasting until 7 October this year. 

We’re now able to confirm that yesterday (Tuesday 16 September), through further partnership working, Your Housing Group have been given full possession of the property. 

Neighbouring residents, businesses and schools have since reported that no further issues have been experienced, and the previous persistent anti-social behaviour has completed ceased. 

This, alongside our #problemsolvingpatrols across Staffordshire, underpins our commitment to acting robustly against the issues affecting local communities the most. 

PC Naomi Kramarczyk, from the Moorlands local policing team, said: “It’s been incredibly pleasing to hear such great feedback from residents and businesses who were previously being plagued with issues at this address. We’ve acted robustly and now they feel much happier and safer, which shows how effective our problem solving approach can be. 

“We’re using this collaborative approach across Staffordshire as we continue to target those engaging in persistent anti-social behaviour and making life incredibly difficult for people living and working in local communities.”

Dave Lovatt, Regional Housing Manager at Your Housing Group, said: “This brings to an end issues of reported drug use and other associated anti-social behaviour that has caused widespread nuisance and concern for local residents. 

“This result shows the true value of partnership working and that Your Housing Group will take perpetrators to task and secure decisions that keep residents and local communities feeling safe and secure.”