VISITORS have been banned from a Bournemouth home after issues of “drug dealing, aggressive behaviour and intimidation” of residents.

Action was taken by BCP Council in relation to problems at the property in West Howe.

A closure order has now been secured, banning visitors from entering 1 Fernheath Road for a period of three months.

District Judge Stephen Nicholls approved the council’s application at a Poole Magistrates’ Court hearing on Thursday, April 14.

This prohibited access for everyone except the resident of the property and any representative of BCP Council for the sole purpose of maintenance and repairs.

Sophie Sajic, BCP Council’s head of seasonal response, said: “BCP Council and partners are committed to tackling anti-social behaviour within our communities.

“A closure order was obtained following complaints of anti-social behaviour that were having a significant impact on the local community and included drug dealing, aggressive behaviour and intimidation of local residents by visitors to the property.

“The order will exclude these visitors, which will provide respite for the local community.

“The council and Dorset Police will continue to work together to monitor the property and support the community.”

A Dorset Police spokesperson said that officers from the local neighbourhood policing team had been working with the local authority to compile evidence to put before the court following concerns raised by residents in relation to anti-social behaviour at the property.

“We recognise the impact this kind of activity can have on those living in the area and we hope this will improve the life of neighbouring residents and safeguard vulnerable individuals,” the police spokesperson said.

“Anyone who has concerns about anti-social behaviour in their community is urged to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or call us on 101.”

BCP Council has applied for closure orders from the courts more and more in recent years as part of its response to anti-social behaviour in residential areas.

The sanctions, which are imposed by magistrates' courts, allow local authorities and police to close down a premises.

The orders can last for up to three months before the council must go back to the court if it wants to prolong the closure.