POLICE have closed a property linked to anti-social behaviour and drug dealing in Benfleet.

Castle Point’s Community Policing Team served an order at a property in Queensmere on Monday, April 16, after Castle Point Council made a successful application at Southend Magistrates’ Court.

Police requested the order after receiving reports about anti-social behaviour and nuisance at the address with a report of drug dealing on Tuesday, April 3.

A woman at the property was ordered to leave and police have since secured the premises.

The order prevents anyone from entering the property for three-months and anyone caught breaching it could face jail.

Sgt Mark McQuade, of Castle Point CPT, said: “We will not tolerate any form of anti-social behaviour or drug dealing in our community and we will use all the powers open to us to tackle it.

“I would like to thank Castle Point Council for their assistance in quickly securing this order through the courts. I would also like to re-assure people that we work closely with our partners to protect the most vulnerable in our communities while disrupting those who choose to destabilise our communities by persistently offending.

David Marchant, chief executive of Castle Point Council said: “We obtained a closure order for the premises under the ASB Crime and Disorder Act 2014, in order to safeguard a vulnerable resident and prevent further serious anti-social behaviour.

“The council will not tolerate nuisance and disorder and will continue to work with Essex Police and other partners to combat anti-social behaviour and criminal behaviour."

Anyone with information about anti-social is urged to contact Essex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.