Horden home with rubbish and dog faeces closed by council

Loud music, swearing, banging and a dog that endlessly barked were just some of the anti-social behaviour that was reported to the council by 47 Eleventh Street in Horden.

Neighbours were left scared to confront the tenants, a couple, following further reports of threatening behaviour, damage to cars and smashed windows - and some even moved out due to the disruption.

Rubbish at the home on Eleventh Street, Horden. (Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL) However, a closure order has now been issued for the home by the council, barring entrance for three months - and any trespassers could see themselves fined or jailed.

The couple are also now set to be housed elsewhere by the council.

Pictures taken of the home by officers whilst completing the closure show a pile of rubbish and food waste inside the home as well as a paved back yard littered with dog faeces.

Joanne Waller, head of community protection at Durham County Council, said: “This is the first time we have had to use these powers on a residential property, but we had to take serious action in this case.

“Not only were the tenants making life a misery for their neighbours, but the living conditions inside the house were so bad it was in their own interests to leave.

“There is a strong sense of community in Horden, and we are working closely with residents and organisations through the Horden Together partnership to improve the lives of those who live and work in the village.

“Nobody should have to live in fear, and we hope this closure order reassures residents that we take anti-social behaviour very seriously and will use all the available tools and powers to make our communities safer.”

Faeces in the yard at the home on Eleventh Street, Horden. (Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL) Inspector Phil Carter, of the Neighbourhood Police Team, added: “We have worked in close partnership with the council in securing a closure order for this property associated with persistent anti-social behaviour.

“In support of this action, the police assisted in the gathering of key evidence and provided necessary resources to ensure the success of the application.

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The home on Eleventh Street, Horden. (Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL) “This collaborative approach has resulted in the closure of the property, helping to mitigate the impact of disruptive behaviour and enhance the safety and well-being of the local community.

“We and our colleagues at Durham County Council will continue to offer support to the victims affected by the anti-social behaviour associated with this property, ensuring their concerns are addressed and their safety is prioritised.

“Additionally, we remain committed to working closely with the council and other partners to prevent further incidents and maintain a safe and secure environment for the community.”