POLICE plan to use new powers to shut crack houses and drug dens in Swindon. The town's drug squad is aiming to become the first in Wiltshire to close buildings which attract hoards of addicts.

The first closure order is already being planned, and follows intelligence left on the Swindon Drugs Hotline.

Granted by magistrates, the orders mean police can board up suspected drug dens for a maximum of three months.

Anyone entering the property is liable to up to six months in prison, a £5,000 fine, or both.

Before applying for the closure warrant issued under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 police will raid the house to collect evidence.

But because the warrant is a civil, as opposed to a criminal, order they can shut it down even if no drugs are found.

Police just need to show they have 'reasonable grounds' for suspecting drugs have been sold, used or produced there in the previous three months.

The property must also be deemed to be causing a nuisance in the neighbourhood.

Drug squad officer WPC Claire Hall said: "There might be problems with prostitutes, and drugs paraphernalia, like needles being left around the area.

"There are often addicts calling at all times of the day and night and a lot of noise disturbance.

"For local people, closing these places down means getting their communities back."

Once the closure warrant is issued, metal shutters will be installed to stop people entering.

An official notice will be left on the door and letters sent to local residents outlining what has happened.

Police will work closely with other agencies, like Swindon Council's crime and disorder unit and housing section to compile evidence.

Key to this will be the Evening Advertiser-backed Swindon Drugs Hotline.

WPC Hall said: "We will not be able to carry these out without the public's help.

"We need to build up a dossier of statements from people about the problems.

"These orders have been used effectively in other parts of the country and have lead to a drop in crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.

"If you want to make a difference to your community, make sure you call."

Tamash Lal