MAGISTRATES have slapped a three month closure order on a Wisbech flat that had been used for the sale of cannabis. The flat at 59 Kinderley Road – the home of Mark Townsend and his sons Ashley and Stephen – had been receiving around 30 visitors a day bet

MAGISTRATES have slapped a three month closure order on a Wisbech flat that had been used for the sale of cannabis.

The flat at 59 Kinderley Road - the home of Mark Townsend and his sons Ashley and Stephen - had been receiving around 30 visitors a day between the hours of 5pm and 3am.

Applying for the closure order on behalf of the Chief Constable, Andrew Logan said neighbours had complained about disruption caused by a "constant flow of visitors" to the flat, leading to the slamming of doors, visitors running up and down the communal staircase, and cars being driven along the street in the early hours.

Mark and Ashley Townsend attended Wisbech courthouse for the hearing on Wednesday. They did not oppose the application, and left before the end of the proceedings.

Mark Townsend had a conviction for allowing the misuse of drugs on the property, and Ashley Townsend had a conviction for possessing cannabis with intent to supply, added Mr Logan.

"People leaving the address have been found in possession of cannabis," he said.

The police had executed three warrants on the premises since November 2008, under the Misuse of Drugs Act, and the occupants have been warned by the police and Roddons Housing Association.

"This has become known as an address where cannabis can be bought," he said.

After the order was granted, Sgt Dave Bax said: "This is the fifth closure of an address in Wisbech, all in the Waterlees Ward.

"We will take action when the behaviour of people associated with the addresses creates anti social behaviour. We do this to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure that residents are given respite from such behaviour in the future.

"We will continue to work daily to identify addresses associated with this type of behaviour and where appropriate, closure notices will be served, and an application made to the courts for the closure of premises.

"Closure orders cannot only be put on housing association premises, but also on pubs, clubs, private houses, alleyways and open areas."

Laura Waite, anti-social behaviour co-ordinator at Roddons, said: "The result is yet another victory for community spirit, and is thanks to the residents who are willing to stand up and work with Roddons, the police and local partners.

"The message is loud and clear - everyone has the right to live in a thriving community that is safe and secure, and we will do everything we can to make sure that this happens.