Irwell Valley Housing and Greater Manchester Police have taken joint action to evict the occupants of a house on Rake Street, Bury.
Following a series of antisocial behaviour incidents including fires, the occupier was evicted by order of Bury Magistrates Court on Friday 15 April.
The property had proved to be a drain on emergency services in recent months. The Fire Service was called out to investigate fires at the back of the property while Police had received calls about the use of needles and drug paraphernalia in and around the house. Environmental Health visits were also required due to the state of the premises.
Possession of the house has now been passed back to Irwell Valley Housing who has secured the building so no other people can gain access to it.
Angela Raftery – Managing Director, Neighbourhoods for Irwell Valley said: “This eviction underlines our policy that we do not tolerate unlawful activities and anti-social behaviour in our properties and neighbourhoods. We thank Greater Manchester Police for their assistance in gaining possession of the house and the local residents who have been patient whilst we followed the necessary legal process to secure an eviction.
“This action will send a clear message that Irwell Valley will use all legitimate powers to enforce an eviction where a tenant has breached their tenancy agreement and that the voice of the law abiding resident is heard and treated with the strictest confidence.”
Neighbourhood Inspector for Bury East, Charlotte Cadden, said: “We have worked with residents, the Greater Manchester Fire Service and other agencies to support Irwell Valley Housing in gaining possession of this house.
“Our aim is to improve the quality of life for our residents – particularly those families whose lives are blighted by unlawful activities in their neighbourhood. This eviction demonstrates that we will not tolerate any level of crime and antisocial behaviour in the area and will work with our partners to put a stop to it.
“If you have concerns about illegal activity in your area you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or police on 0161 872 5050.”