A Solihull council house tenant has been legally prohibited from entering or living in his own home after a court granted a three-month closure order. The action was taken following multiple serious complaints about the property.
Court Grants Order Following Serious Complaints
Birmingham Magistrates' Court heard that the address at Blackcat Close, Chelmsley Wood, had been linked to significant anti-social behaviour since April. The proceedings, brought by Solihull Council, cited specific reports of Class A drug misuse, a high volume of undesirable visitors to the home, and persistent noise nuisance.
The tenant, 39-year-old Gary Norman, did not attend the hearing on Thursday, December 4, and the case was heard in his absence. Solihull Community Housing (SCH), which manages the council's housing stock, successfully applied for the legal order.
What the Closure Order Means
The Closure Order is effective for three months and strictly forbids anyone from remaining in, returning to, or entering the premises. The only exceptions are individuals explicitly named on the order, employees of Solihull Council or SCH, and members of the emergency services.
Any breach of this order is a criminal offence. Individuals who break it face arrest and, if found guilty, could receive a prison sentence, a fine, or both.
Council Vows to Protect Law-Abiding Tenants
Speaking after the hearing, Councillor Mark Parker, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, emphasised the council's duty to its residents. "Our law-abiding tenants deserve to live safely in their homes, without fear of criminal activity," he stated.
He praised the collaborative work of SCH officers, the council's legal team, and West Midlands Police in securing the order. Councillor Parker also encouraged other tenants to come forward with concerns. "I would encourage any of our tenants who think that criminal or anti-social behaviour is taking place in their area to contact SCH or the Police. You will be listened to and your complaints will be treated confidentially," he assured.
Residents of SCH properties can report anti-social or criminal behaviour by calling the dedicated Anti-Social Behaviour Hotline on 0121 717 1500.
