The flat is now fully locked up and secured and signs have gone up warning that it is a criminal offence to enter or remain at the address. Penalties for breaching the order include a fine and up to 51 weeks in prison.

The Council collated evidence on the behaviour of the 54-year-old tenant and his visitors from a catalogue of concerns reported by residents. These included frequent incidences of drunken behaviour and suspected drug taking.

Neighbours had to endure numerous episodes of shouting, screaming and swearing in addition to violent banging and smashing noises. Reports were also made regarding the tenant's dogs which frequently roamed unleashed.

Due to the continued acts of anti-social behaviour in and around the address the Closure Order was granted in Bromley Magistrates Court under the provisions of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The order is initially in place for three months.

The Council, in consultation with the police and other partners decided to issue an Intent to Serve a Closure Notice on 15 September. A Closure Notice was subsequently served on 9 October.

'Behaviour will not be tolerated'

Councillor Jackie Smith, Cabinet member for Community Safety and Environment, said: "We received a large number of complaints from neighbours concerned about the activities in and around these premises. The application was made due to continued acts of anti-social behaviour in and around the flat including alcohol and drug misuse, noise nuisance, threatening and intimidating behaviour.

"The Royal Borough is committed to protecting the public and tackling any behaviour which has a negative impact on the community. Our tenants and other residents in the area have a right to live in their homes without the fear of encountering violent behaviour or substance abuse.

"We did try and deal with the problems but our warning letters and requests for meetings to resolve the problems at this property were ignored. We hope that this Closure Order sends out a strong message that behaviour which ruins the quality of life for other people in Royal Greenwich will not be tolerated."