A CLOSURE order has been granted on a town centre address believed to have become a "hub for local gangs" and used for drug dealing.

Merseyside Police obtained a full closure order for 19 Providence Court, Charles Street following cases of anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and drug taking linked to the address.

The order prevents anyone from accessing the property for three months.

St Helens town centre neighbourhood inspector, Dave Brennan, said: "We can confirm that a closure order has been put in place at an address on Charles Street.

"It was applied for by the local neighbourhood policing team in rapid response to issues raised by a local housing association over concerns their tenants were being subjected to anti-social behaviour by the resident and visitors to this address and that criminal offences were taking place at the premises.

"The complaints received included incidents of anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and drug taking linked to the address and people calling there.

"The property was associated with anti-social behaviour in the area and appeared to have become a hub for local gangs in the area who were using it to use and sell drugs.

"We will continue to target offenders and any properties associated with them who continue to cause problems for the community, and we will do this using all lawful powers available to us in order to make St Helens a safer and more peaceful place to live."

He added: "The order was approved in St Helens Magistrates Court and means that nobody can visit the address other than the occupant. Anyone, other than those specified in the order, found to be on the premises will be subject to arrest.

"The prohibited access to the premises is put in place in an effort to reduce the level of crime reported in the area and to allow the local residents of St Helens to enjoy the quality of life that they are entitled to.

"The order will run for three months and will be reviewed by officers at its conclusion."

Inspector Brennan added: "This closure order was only made possible due to the assistance of the local community and we will continue to be robust in tackling criminal activity and anti-social behaviour. I would encourage any members of the community who have any information to call us via our 101 number or through Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."