THREE notorious ‘drugs den’ addresses in Newton Abbot have been shut down by police this afternoon (fri) after closure order applications were granted by town magistrates.

None of the orders was contested by the three – homeowner Seam Gallogly, of 58 Prospect Terrace, and tenants Melanie Green and Linda White, of the Russell House flats complex in East Street.

Locks were changed at the two Russell House flats by landlords the Guinness Trust while police boarded up the Prospect Terrace property this afternoon.

The court concluded that the closure orders should be imposed immediately to prevent further distress to neighbours, as well as the wider community.

Neighbourhood Sergeant John Dingle said: ‘There has been a sustained period of anti-social-behaviour and drug use linked to these three addresses.

‘Police and partner agencies have tried working with residents but the situation has not improved, which has resulted in us obtaining these closure orders today.’

He added: ‘This is a great outcome for the other residents of Prospect Terrace and Russell House as well as for the wider community in Newton Abbot.

‘This is also a great example of our commitment to reducing crime and ensure the safety of those in our communities.’