Devon & Cornwall Police News site

St Austell properties that became a hive for antisocial behaviour (ASB) have been boarded up for three months to put a stop to the persistent activity.

Officers have served full closure orders at two addresses located on Goonbarrow Meadows and Carnsmerry [Bugle] on Tuesday 19 August.

This follows reports from the community involving food being thrown at neighbouring vehicles and houses, damage to vehicles, suspected drug use, drug supply and violent incidents.

The closure orders now make it an offence for anyone to enter either address.

The impacted tenants have been signposted to support services while the orders are in place and work will continue between police and partners to ensure future crime prevention at the properties.

Whilst the orders were being served, a 16-year-old resident was arrested on suspicion of carrying a knife. He was charged and bailed until his plea hearing at Bodmin Magistrates’ Court on 1 September.

Inspector Si Andrews, who heads up neighbourhood police in the area, said: “This continuous behaviour was having really harmful impact on the community; no one should be made to feel intimidated or worried in the area they live.

“We’ll always look at alternative ways to tackle issues like these, but in this circumstance, securing the closure orders was the next necessary step to protect the public from experiencing further harm.

Insp Andrews added: “Your reports are always taken seriously – I hope this is a clear example of how we’re taking action.

“If you’re experiencing similar behaviour or have been made to feel unsafe where you live, please report it to us. We are listening and acting on the information you share.”

This activity was supported by the local policing team, housing providers, the council’s ASB team, Safer St Austell and child services.

If you are experiencing antisocial behaviour in your area, or would like to raise concerns with the police, please report them on the website: Report antisocial behaviour | Devon & Cornwall Police or by calling 101.

If a crime is taking place, call 999.

If you have been affected by crime, please visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.

Published 22 August 2025.