Coventry City Council's fight against nuisance neighbours continued last week, when Nuneaton County Court awarded Housing Services a Possession Order against a Mr Andrew Smith of Whoberley.

The action against the tenant of a four storey block of flats in Whoberley, was taken by Housing Services in response to ongoing complaints from other residents of excessive noise, damage to communal property and intimidating behaviour by Mr Smith and visitors to his flat.

Mr Smith has been given 42 days notice to quit his Council flat.  He also gave the Court an 'undertaking' not to reside elsewhere in Raphael Close once he had moved out of the flat.

Councillor Peter Lacy, Chair of the Council's Housing Policy Team said:

"As a City Council we have given our commitment to the law abiding majority of people that we will do all we can to uphold their right to a quiet life.  This latest case proves that we are taking action against 'nuisance neighbours' on our housing estates.  The Court Order is good news for the people living in Raphael Close.  They can now see an end to the unacceptable behaviour they have endured.  I would also like to thank those people who had the courage to come forward to act as witnesses in this case.  Without them this action would not have been possible."

Ward Councillors in the area are also delighted with the result of the Court appearance.  The Leader of the Council, Councillor John Fletcher, [who is one of the Whoberley ward councillors] said:

"Across the city we are aiming to improve people's quality of life through our five year Coventry Community Plan.  Tackling crime and making communities safer is not only high on people's agendas but is one of our six key priorities too.  I am pleased that our efforts to bring offenders to book are being upheld through the courts.  By working together with the Courts, local people and the Police, I am sure we can breathe new life into and regenerate our communities for the future."

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. Evidence of Mr Smith's anti-social behaviour was given by both residents and Council officers.
2. The Court's ruling means that Mr Smith will face eviction if he does not vacate his flat within the time allowed - 42 days.
3. His undertaking to move out of Raphael Close is especially welcomed by the residents.  If he were to break his word and live with someone else in the Close then he would have to answer to the Court for showing contempt.
4. Coventry Community Plan is a five year plan which sets out key priorities for the city over the next five years.  The agreed priorities are the result of a wide range of meetings, consultation and conferences involving many organisations and people with a stake in Coventry's future including GPT, Coventry Health Authority, Coventry City Football Club and many more.  The six key priorities are
   
• Creating more jobs for Coventry people
• Tackling crime, making communities safer
• Tackling poverty
• Investing in young people
• Creating an exciting and vibrant city centre
• Meeting the needs and aspirations of older people

MORE INFORMATION: 
Richard Osborne, Head of Management & Community Services
01203 831913

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