A business in Birkenhead has been served with a three-month closure notice following longstanding reports of serious anti-social behaviour. The property, on Dial Road, was the site of a large-scale fire in September, requiring 14 fire engines to attend.
Court grants closure order
The Closure Order was granted by Merseyside Magistrates’ Court on October 8, after evidence was presented detailing persistent nuisance associated with the address. This included frequent visitors attending at all hours, noise disturbance, burning of materials causing noxious fumes, and behaviour causing alarm and distress to other residents and the local community.
There had also been numerous dog attacks by animals kept on site, and evidence of cars being dumped in neighbouring roads, causing problems for residents who couldn't gain access to their homes.
Residents' complaints
The court heard local residents had experienced significant disruption to their daily lives and wellbeing over a prolonged period. Complaints included persistent sleep deprivation, concerns for personal safety, intimidation by visitors to the property, and an inability to peacefully enjoy their homes.
The fire service arrived at the scene of the blaze around 11.35pm on September 25, and found the Dial Tyres business on fire along with a neighbouring two-storey house. One person and two dogs were rescued from the burning property.
Council response
Cllr Jenny Johnson, Chair of the Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee for Wirral Council, said: “I welcome the action taken today led by the Anti-Social Behaviour Team but supported by a number of other council colleagues.
“For far too long, this premises has not acted like a good neighbour at all – in fact, through a variety of actions and behaviours, it has made many residents’ lives a misery.
“A Closure Order is one of the strongest powers available to local authorities and is it used where premises are associated with serious nuisance, disorder, or criminality.
“I am happy the court has supported the application for the order against this property.”
Breaching a Closure Order is a criminal offence and can result in imprisonment, a fine, or both.
