A FLAT in Christchurch is to remain closed to its tenant for a further three months as authorities attempt to tackle "significant nuisance and disorder".

BCP Council, Dorset Police and housing association Sovereign secured the extension in relation to 22A Edward Road in Somerford.

As reported, action was taken back in November following anti-social behaviour at the Sovereign managed address.

Magistrates sitting in Poole on November 10 granted the initial three-month closure order, which came into effect immediately and barred the tenant from entering the property.

This is the maximum length allowed for a closure order, meaning the council had to go back before the courts this month to seek an extension.

District Judge Stephen Nicholls granted this request at a court hearing on February 8.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “Due to anti-social behaviour and significant nuisance and disorder, an extended Closure Order has been granted at an address in Edward Road thanks to continued partnership working by our anti-social behaviour teams, Sovereign Housing and Dorset Police.

“We hope this will bring some respite to residents. These sorts of issues will not be tolerated and we will continue to help communities and take steps to reduce anti-social behaviour.”

The order means that only Dorset Police officers and representatives from the housing association were allowed to access the property.

Dave Bull, operational head of tenancy for Sovereign, said: “We continue to work closely with Dorset Police and BCP Council to support this closure order to try and resolve anti-social behaviour at this property.

"Unfortunately in this instance we felt it necessary to obtain an extension to the closure order pending a further court hearing, to ensure long term respite for the local community.

"We hope that this closure order and partnership working sends a clear message that we'll do everything we can to help people retain tenancies, but persistent, impactful and ongoing nuisance in our communities won't be ignored.”

If you are interested in court and crime news, stay up to date with all our latest updates in our dedicated Facebook group. To find out more and to join click here.