A KNOWN crackhouse in the centre of Gloucester was closed down yesterday following a police raid.

Police said the flat, in Wellington Court, Wellington Street, was a regular haunt for Class A drug users.

At around 12.30pm six officers stormed the property, which was empty at the time, and searched the rooms.

After the raid they used ladders to board up the windows.

PC Mark Mansfield, who co-ordinated the closure activity, said there had been many complaints about the flat.

He said: "We've been receiving complaints for some time now about loud music, anti social behaviour and people coming and going at all times of the day and night.

"We have evidence of Class A drug use there, with reports of drug users lying comatose around the property, and some local residents have said they are afraid of the people visiting there.

"It is not right that a minority can cause misery for others in this way and we are determined, with the backing of the community, to drive this sort of inconsiderate and illegal activity out of the city.

"I hope our action today will reassure residents we do take their concerns seriously and deter others from acting in this way."

Officers from Gloucester City Centre Safer Community Team visited the premises two weeks ago to warn those using the flat that a court order was being considered.

Earlier this week a notice was served on the premises warning that a closure order would be applied for.

On Wednesday Cheltenham Magistrates Court granted a full closure order and yesterday officers with specialist contractors moved in to seal the premises up.

Large metal panels were fixed over the windows and a metal door was installed in the doorway.

Signs have been put on the boards saying 'Closed. To protect your community from drugs and anti-social behaviour'.

No arrests have been made yet and police are still trying to find the owner of the flat.

The closure order will last for three months, during which time it will be an offence to enter or remain in the premises.