Closure order secured for Torquay house, following drug activity
Devon and Cornwall Police have taken action in Barton Road
A closure order's been secured for a house in Torquay that was reportedly being used for selling drugs.
Devon and Cornwall have taken action at a property on Barton Road, after complaints from local residents and to disrupt drug supply in the community.
The order means no-one is allowed to enter the property for three months, and could face prosecution if they're found on the premises.
PC Hill from Devon and Cornwall Police said:
“The activity that took place at this property had had a devastating impact on the wellbeing of local residents. We received reports of people regularly visiting the address at all hours of the day to buy drugs. They would then proceed to take the drugs in a nearby alley ways and bin stores.
“This was a constant pattern of behaviour in and around the address. Seeing people who are under the influence of drugs can be intimidating, and it had caused local residents to feel worried in their own neighbourhood.
“Our team will always engage with individuals in an effort to disrupt the negative behaviour before going down the route of securing a closure order, but despite call ins to the address and targeted police activity, there was no change.”
Machaela O’Brien, dedicated antisocial behaviour Legal Advisor, said: “Residents should not have to live in fear in their own homes as a result of antisocial behaviour. The property is also located on a busy road and nearby a primary school, so the footpaths around this property are regularly used by parents, carers and children.
“We know this is only a temporary measure, but I’d like to reassure local people that the work doesn’t stop here. Police officers will continue to work in the local area to address the long-term issues, disrupting and preventing further offending from taking place.
“Thank you those who reported this issue to us – I hope this shows that we are listening and that we do take your reports seriously. The information you provide us is invaluable. If you don’t tell us, then please don’t assume we know.”
A Misuse of Drugs Act warrant had previously been carried out at the address in January 2025.
During the search, £600 of heroin was seized with an investigation into the supply of drugs still ongoing.
The owner and tenants affected by the closure order have been signposted to partner agencies while the order is in place and intervention is ongoing to ensure future safeguarding and crime prevention.