A PROPERTY in Cwmbran has been shut down by the courts following countless reports of anti-social behaviour at the address - the first in Torfaen.

The three-month closure order was granted at Newport Magistrates' Court yesterday for the Bron Afon owned property at Belle Vue Close in St Dials.

Gwent Police applied for the order following numerous reports of anti-social behaviour at the address.

There have been frequent reports of excessive noise, shouting, fighting, parties, disorder and drug use in and around the area of the property at all times of the day and night, it was said.

The reports involve the tenant as well as frequent visitors to the address.

This behaviour is having a negative impact on other local residents in the community, it was added.

As a result of the order, steel shutters will now be installed at the property and will remain in place for a minimum of three months. During this time anyone who attempts to enter the property can be arrested by police.

Crime and disorder reduction officer, PC Tom Delaney, said: “We have visited the property with representatives from Bron Afon to speak to the occupier about his behaviour as well as the behaviour of his visitors. However, this has been ignored and the behaviour has continued to escalate over recent months.

“The decision to apply for a closure order is not taken lightly, however it is clear that local residents have been suffering as a result of this behaviour, which we will not tolerate. Hopefully the Closure Order will allow some peace to be restored for the local community and I’d like to thank them for their support.”

Liz Evans, head of community housing for Bron Afon said: “Bron Afon has worked with the Police to make the difficult decision to apply for a closure order in this case. This decision was not taken lightly, but we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour of any kind that causes distress and disruption to other residents and the community.

“Our main concern is for the safety of residents and that they can live peacefully in their homes.”