Residents of St Stephen’s House in Spring Boroughs have gained a significant legal reprieve following a surge in severe anti-social behaviour. Northampton Magistrates’ Court has authorized a Partial Closure Order for the entire block, marking a decisive shift in how local authorities manage persistent residential disruption.
Restrictions at St Stephen’s House
The court order imposes immediate and strict limits on who can enter the premises. Under the terms of the three-month injunction, anyone who is not a legal resident is banned from entering the building or any of its communal facilities. This exclusion extends to entrances, stairwells, the car park, and bin stores.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | St Stephen’s House, Spring Boroughs, Northampton |
| Order Type | Partial Closure Order (3-month duration) |
| Prohibited Areas | All communal zones, stairwells, and car parks |
| Enforcement Agencies | West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Police |
| Legal Penalty | Criminal offence resulting in arrest for breaches |
Historic Enforcement in Northamptonshire
This legal action represents the first time a Partial Closure Order has been applied to an entire block of flats within Northamptonshire. The application was led by West Northamptonshire Council’s Community Safety Team, working alongside Northamptonshire Partnership Homes and local police units.
Residents provided evidence of a deteriorating living environment, documenting instances of drug use, individuals passing out in walkways, and aggressive confrontations. Reports also included hygiene concerns, with evidence of people urinating and defecating in shared areas.
Legal Consequences and Next Steps
The order is designed as a protective shield for the community, allowing police to immediately arrest any non-resident found on the property. This measure aims to break the cycle of anti-social behaviour that has plagued the Spring Boroughs area. Security teams and police patrols will monitor the site to ensure the restrictions are upheld.
Anyone found in breach of the order faces criminal prosecution. The three-month window provides a period of stability for residents while authorities consider longer-term management strategies for the building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Partial Closure Order and why was it issued for St Stephen’s House?
A Partial Closure Order is a legal tool granted under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. It allows authorities to restrict access to a property while permitting legal tenants to remain. This specific order was issued for St Stephen’s House because communal areas—like stairwells and bin stores—had become hotspots for drug use, aggressive behavior, and public health hazards, making the environment unsafe for residents.
How do I report a breach of the order if I see unauthorized people in the building?
If you witness non-residents loitering in the car park, stairwells, or communal zones, you should report it immediately to Northamptonshire Police via the 101 non-emergency line or through the West Northamptonshire Council website. Since the order makes entering these areas a criminal offence for non-residents, the police have the authority to make immediate arrests to maintain the building’s security.
Will this order prevent delivery drivers or healthcare workers from entering?
No. The order is designed to target those causing disruption, not essential services. Healthcare providers, emergency services, and council contractors are exempt and can enter freely. Delivery drivers are also permitted to complete their drop-offs but must leave communal areas immediately after. Residents are encouraged to meet legitimate guests at the main entrance to ensure they are not mistaken for unauthorized individuals.
What happens when the three-month order expires?
The initial order acts as a ‘stabilization’ period. Before the three months conclude, the West Northamptonshire Council’s Community Safety Team will review the impact. If the anti-social behavior has not significantly improved, the council can apply to the Magistrates’ Court for an extension of up to six months. During this window, authorities often work on longer-term solutions, such as individual injunctions or permanent security upgrades for the block.
Source: West Northamptonshire Council
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