Three homes have been closed down by police after people hanging around the properties made neighbours’ lives a misery.

Police from Newham’s Enforcement Partnership Team won closure orders to shut down a flat in Sheringham Avenue, Manor Park, and another two houses in South Esk Road and Green Street, Forest Gate.

Officers said they were made aware of anti-social behaviour problems at the properties after surrounding residents complained of late night noise and disruption and suspected drug abuse.

Thames Magistrates Court granted police powers under Section 1a of the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 which makes it an offence to try and enter the premises for three months.

Anyone who breaches the order faces a fine of up to £5,000 or up to six months in prison.

The Sheringham Avenue flat order was granted July 5, the South Esk Road house was closed on July 25, and the Green Street address was closed on July 31st.

Pc Paul Sanders, from Newham’s Enforcement Partnership Team, said: “The lifestyle of those who indulge in illicit drug misuse has a direct affect on others within the community.

“This manifests in various ways such as crime and disorder, nuisance and visual affects such as discarded drug paraphernalia.

“No one should be fearful of being in their own home, and by closing down these properties, we hope to have improved the lives of those living nearby.”

Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales said: “We are dealing robustly and vigorously with the crime and anti-social behaviour that is sometimes associated with bad private sector rented housing.

“One bad house can drag down a whole street. We are doing this for the community.”