Problem property is repossessed after partners work together – South Oxhey

Dear Resident

A South Oxhey property linked to chronic crime and anti-social behaviour has been repossessed by the housing association thanks to successful partnership working.

The flat in Clitheroe Gardens has been a hotspot for long-term issues since March 2023 and the Three Rivers’ Community Safety Unit (CSU) secured a full closure order on the address in February this year to give neighbours respite from the ongoing problems.

The partnership work done by the police, the council and the housing association effectively safeguarded residents and mandatory possession was ordered.

Following a hearing at Watford County Court on Tuesday 29 July, the property is now back in the possession of locally-based housing association Thrive. 

Sergeant Gary Yam, who leads the Three Rivers’ CSU, said: “I hope this result reassures the public that we will listen and act if certain residents are causing misery to others with their inconsiderate and often illegal behaviour. 

“This should also serve as a warning to those who engage in these activities that we and our partners will not hesitate to get people removed from their homes when their actions are having such a detrimental effect on their neighbours. 

“Now the property is empty, any required refurbishment work will be carried out before a new tenant is able to move in.

“If you have information about crime and anti-social behaviour in your neighbourhood, please don’t hesitate to report it to us. Every call is taken seriously and while we might not be able to take robust action straight away, every piece of intelligence helps to build our case for the courts.”

If you have information about anti-social behaviour, drug crime or other incidents in your street, you can report it online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

In an emergency, always call 999.