Police 'close' part of town over drug concerns

Police said they had "closed" parts of a town for almost three months following concerns about drug use and criminal damage.

The open space closure order covers parts of West Street, Onyx Court and John Thompson Road - plus adjoining land - in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire.

The order remains in place until 7 August and prohibits access to everyone at all times, with the exception of those who live there, their visitors, emergency services, and Clarion Housing Association and Fenland District Council employees.

Failure to comply with the order would be a criminal offence that could result in imprisonment of up to three months.

Cambridgeshire Police said: "An area of Wisbech has been closed to the public following concerns about drug use and damage."

The order covers 1 to 27 West Street (including 1A, 2A, and 3A), 1 to 32 Onyx Court, and 1 to 16 John Thompson Road.

It also includes adjoining land, communal areas, pathways, private parking spaces, and outside space up to the public highway boundary

PC Nicola Coaker said: "We applied for this order in response to residents' concerns about drug dealing and use in communal areas, as well as damage caused to doors and windows.

"I hope this action provides them with the reassurance that we're listening to them and trying to improve the issues.

"Throughout the duration of the order we will conduct regular checks and take action against anyone found breaching the order," she added.

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