Closure order in usually quiet Gawsworth neighbourhood

Macclesfield police have closed a property on Pennington’s Lane, Gawsworth – historically a quiet road associated with the retired and elderly.

Police were granted the closure order at Chester Magistrates’ Court yesterday, Thursday 11 July.

The securing of the order comes after the court was presented with substantial evidence of anti-social behaviour and drug dealing – including cannabis, heroin and crack cocaine.

Macclesfield police have been called to the address on 28 occasions, since December 2022, in response to a number of criminal incidents. The frequent visits to the address by known local drug dealers resulted in warrants being conducted on multiple occasions when drug paraphernalia was found. 

The address has also been the subject of anti-social behaviour. In 2023, police were called to the address in relation to the keeping of several XL Bully dogs – dogs that required six police dog handlers to control. 

As a result, the address has now been boarded up. The closure orders will run for three months, during which time nobody is allowed to enter the addresses, including the tenant.

Anyone who does enter the address during that period will be committing a criminal offence.

Sergeant Matthew Bassirat, of Macclesfield South Beat, said:

“Pennington’s Lane is a quiet road on the outskirts of Macclesfield lined with bungalow properties, it is a lovely road and a sought-after location.

“However, one address on this otherwise peaceful street has caused nothing but distress and upset to the residents for well over 18 months, with frequent reports of criminality and the supply of illegal drugs.

“I am grateful this order against this disruptive address has been granted and hope they will bring reassurance to residents in the area that we are committed to doing all we can to tackle this kind of behaviour.

“But in order for us to continue to put a stop to those engaging in anti-social behaviour, I would urge anyone experiencing any issues with this type of offence to get in touch via the Cheshire Police website, by calling 101 or contacting Crimestoppers.”