Council takes action to prevent significant crime and anti-social behaviour
Wednesday 25 June 2025: Hillingdon Council has obtained five closure orders for tenants' properties in Cowley, Northwood Hills and Uxbridge following reports of serious anti-social behaviour (ASB) and criminal activity, including drug dealing, violence and knifepoint robberies.
The orders were granted by Uxbridge Magistrates' Court under Section 80 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 on Wednesday 18 June.
Four were issued for council flats within Packet Boat House, Cowley, and The Gouldings and Barnsfield Place, Uxbridge, following a police investigation which found the properties were linked to a significant organised drug supply operation.
The court also heard reports from the council and police about neighbouring residents experiencing incidents of violence, unknown people frequently entering the blocks, damage to communal areas and door entry systems, and rough sleeping, which made them feel unsafe in their own homes.
The fifth order was granted for a council-owned property in Haydon Drive, Northwood Hills after the court reviewed statements from witnesses and the police describing frequent incidents of drug use, violence and theft from delivery drivers with the use of weapons.
The council outlined to the court that before taking enforcement action, support was offered to the tenant to improve their welfare and encourage behaviour change via a range of agencies. However, due to incidents of ASB progressively getting worse the order was sought to keep the tenant and other residents safe from harm.
The orders mean no one can enter the properties for three months, except for the landlord, police, other emergency services or utility providers. Anyone else who enters or stays on the premises without a reasonable excuse can be fined, imprisoned or both.
Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: "While the majority of our tenants live peacefully and respect their neighbours, these cases represent serious tenancy breaches.
"This is an excellent result for our housing and legal services, highlighting our commitment to keeping residents safe. We also work closely with our partners, the police to pursue enforcement action to prevent persistent ASB and crime."
Following the orders being granted, the council also issued notices to the tenants, under the Policing and Crime Act 2014, to regain full possession of the properties.
To report any ASB concerns, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/safety.
