Chatham flat boarded up due to antisocial behaviour

A Medway property linked to drug abuse and antisocial behaviour has been boarded up for the benefit of neighbouring families.

The flat in Steddys Court, Chatham has been made subject to a three-month closure order following an application by Kent Police officers with support from the social housing provider mhs homes.

Anyone who enters the property without permission during this time risks receiving a fine and prison sentence.

Clear, Hold, Build

Steddys Court is within an area of Chatham that is currently benefitting from a national initiative aimed at improving the lives of people affected by crime and antisocial behaviour.

The tactic known as ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ aims to target and remove those responsible for causing problems in a particular area and ensure a safer, more peaceful environment for everyone else.

Sergeant Sasha Blomfield said:

‘It is unacceptable that the antisocial behaviour of a minority of people should have such a damaging impact on the lives of others. ‘For some time the property in Steddys Court has been the root cause of a number of problems including regular disturbances, the use and littering of needles and other drugs, the intimidation of neighbouring residents, and visitors urinating and defecating in the stairwell and lifts. ‘We do not tolerate such appalling behaviour or hesitate to take action against the people responsible, ensuring everyone else can go about their daily business without having to worry about what they will see, hear or experience next.’

Court hearing

The closure order was granted following a hearing at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 10 December 2024 and came into effect on Monday 16 December.

A sign has now been placed on the door of the property warning that it is an offence to enter.