Problem flat in Sulgrave’s Collingwood Court shut down under closure order

A flat linked to repeated reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal activity in Washington has been closed following joint action by police and the council.

The property, located at Collingwood Court in the Sulgrave area, had been the subject of ongoing complaints from local residents. Concerns raised included drug-related activity, alcohol misuse, disorder, and wider anti-social behaviour.

After receiving reports from the public, Northumbria Police worked alongside Sunderland City Council to investigate the situation at the address. As part of the initial response, the occupant was issued with a Community Protection Notice (CPN) aimed at stopping behaviour that was having a negative impact on the surrounding community.

However, police say the notice was breached on multiple occasions, with further problematic behaviour reported at the property. As a result, further enforcement action was taken.

On January 6, an occupant of the flat was arrested and later charged with two counts of failing to comply with a Community Protection Notice.

Using civil legislation powers in partnership with other agencies, authorities moved to prevent further disruption. A closure order was granted and formally served at the property when officers attended the address on Tuesday, January 20.

The order prohibits anyone other than the occupant from entering the flat for a period of three months. Anyone found accessing the property unlawfully could face prosecution.

Sergeant Patrick Scott, of Northumbria Police, thanked members of the public for coming forward.

He said: “I’d like to thank residents who alerted us to this problem property. Their information has helped us take action and prevent further issues linked to criminality at this address.”

He added that officers remain committed to addressing anti-social behaviour in Sulgrave and nearby areas, highlighting the impact such issues can have on local communities.

Sgt Scott also encouraged people living nearby to continue working with police and council community support officers and to report any suspicious activity, adding that officers are ready to take action.

Councillor Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council and cabinet member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, said residents should not have to tolerate persistent anti-social behaviour.

She said: “Our residents deserve to live in peace without having to put up with the kind of behaviour we’ve seen at this address. I’m pleased that, by working closely with Northumbria Police, we’ve been able to take action on behalf of the local community.”

She added that community safety hubs were created to tackle issues that matter most to residents and praised the early impact of the Safer Concord and Sulgrave Community Safety Hub.

Councillor Chequer also thanked residents for reporting concerns and encouraged others to do the same so action can be taken where needed.

Members of the public with information about suspected criminal activity can contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media, through the force’s website using the live chat or report functions, or by calling 101.

In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, people should always call 999.