A Stratford squat that is believed to have been lived in by up to 20 people has been shut down.

Officers from Newham Council’s enforcement and safety team visited to close the squat, in a former pub and night club in Henniker Road, last month.

Residents had reported noise coming from the property and council officers found rubbish and human faeces in the garden.

Discarded needles were found in the surrounding area, while the police had indicated a spike in robbery and burglary nearby.

As the property was privately owned, the council were unable to pursue a court closure order, but a possession order was secured.

During the eviction, on Wednesday, September 23, four women and five men were found inside.

They were all offered support by addiction and mental health agencies, and issued with community protection notices banning them from squatting in the borough again.

Cllr Unmesh Desai, cabinet member for crime and anti-social behaviour, said: “Residents should not have to put up with squatters living on their road, disturbing their peace and wreaking havoc in the area.

“I am glad the council and the police were able to help the property owner evict these squatters.”

The squat has now been made secure and the owner is now in the process of clearing the garden.