A HOUSE which was the centre of antisocial behaviour has been closed down by police.

The resident of the house in Ridley Street, in Stanley has left the premises and officers have secured a court order which makes it an offence for anyone to enter the house before March.

Police say the house has blighted the local community with antisocial behaviour Sgt Emma Kay, from Stanley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The antisocial behaviour and crime associated with this house and its visitors has caused intimidation and distress to other residents in this close community.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated in Stanley and I hope this shows that robust action will be taken against persistent offenders.”

On Tuesday, Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court granted an order under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 The order remains in place until March 11 and means anyone entering the property between now and then will be arrested and could face up to three months imprisonment or a fine.

Acting Inspector Dave Clarke from Stanley Police said "I’d like to thank the community for their support and patience whilst we addressed this issue.

“This is the first closure of this type in the area and it goes to show how committed we are to solving problems in our communities and working with partner agencies, to tackle those issues head on.”

“Hopefully the residents in the street will now be able to enjoy a happy and peaceful Christmas”