A CLOSURE order has been granted against a town centre property which has been described as a "focal point for drug dealing".

Police obtained the order on 19 Providence Court, Charles Street at Liverpool and Knowsley Magistrates' Court on Friday (April 7).

The order, supported by the owners of the building, Your Housing, was granted under section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014.

It prevents anyone accessing the premises until July 7, except those authorised by Merseyside Police or the owner of the building to carry out maintenance and repair work.

Police say the action was taken following reports of drug related activity and anti-social behaviour.

A three-month order had been obtained previously against the property in February 2016 following cases of anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and drug taking.

Constable Mark Semourson, from Community Policing, said: “This closure order has been achieved to reduce the significant impact drug dealing has on people trying to live their lives in peace in our communities.

“We have listened to and worked with our community to close this property and this will improve the quality of the life of our residents. We will listen and we will act.

“It was clear that this address was a focal point for drug dealing. Merseyside Police is committed to looking after our communities and I would encourage anyone who has any issues in their neighbourhood to contact their local policing team.”

Anyone wanting to speak to the police or provide information can contact the Police via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.