A DRUGS den which was blighting Cradley Heath residents has been closed and boarded up by officers after magistrates granted a Crack House Closure Order.

The Waggon Street property was investigated after members of the public reported suspected drug dealing and anti-social behaviour, with people coming and going at all hours of the day and night.

Police officers executed several drugs warrants, providing enough evidence to have the house closed.

The closure order, granted at Sandwell Magistrates' Court, makes it a criminal offence for anybody to enter the address unless authorised by police.

All windows and doors at the property have been boarded up and officers have placed large notices on the house explaining the reasons for its closure.

Sergeant Mandy Morgan, from the Cradley Heath and Old Hill neighbourhood team, said: "Officers will closely monitor the situation for any breaches. If further problems arise then we will be able to tackle swiftly.

"This closure sends out a clear message to criminals - if you allow your property to be used for the distribution or consumption of drugs we will use all of the powers available to us to stop you."