Partial closure order secured on problem property

The partial closure order, supported by Northumbria Police, follows repeated breaches of a Community Protection Warning and Community Protection Notice issued to Kieran Phillips, previously of Westcliffe Road.

Granted on Wednesday 27 July by South Tyneside Magistrates' Court, the partial closure order prohibits Kieran Phillips or his associates from remaining on or entering the address, which is owned by his grandmother.

The application for the order was made following complaints from members of the public about anti-social behaviour including fighting, damaging property and drug use.

The anti-social behaviour team became aware of complaints from residents of nearby Cliffe Court that a male was congregating with friends in the communal entrance to Cliffe Court and using cannabis.

This was corroborated by Police reports and CCTV footage and Kieran Phillips was issued with a Community Protection Warning - including an exclusion zone incorporating Cliffe Court - to protect local residents.

Offers of professional support were made to Kieran but he declined.

In November 2021, Kieran Phillips was issued with a Community Protection Notice and once again support was offered but declined.

However, in 2022 incidents became more severe and the council sought a partial closure order on the address.

Any person found breaching a Closure Order is liable to arrest. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 51 weeks' imprisonment.

Cllr Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: "This is a quiet street with no history of anti-social behaviour, and Mr Phillips' behaviour has caused distress and upset to his neighbours. Now that he is no longer permitted to access the property, I would like to thank members of the public for coming forward, showing their community spirit and demonstrating how if we all work and act together, we can make our streets and neighbourhoods happier and more peaceful places."

Residents with concerns about anti-social behaviour should contact 0191 520 5550 or www.sunderland.gov.uk/report-it