A Bermondsey home that was being used as a cannabis factory earlier this year has been repossessed by Southwark Council and will be made available to a housing applicant.
Using new legislation, the council were able to immediately take control of the Pope House flat on the Manor Estate after the culprit was sentenced to nine months in prison.
The council applied for a mandatory eviction under the new Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act, which gives councils the power to seek possession of a property where a tenant has committed a serious criminal offence. This is the first time the new order has been used by Southwark Council.
Councillor Richard Livingstone, Southwark cabinet member for housing, said: “Council properties are a precious resource that should go to those in the most need. We cannot allow for a small minority of irresponsible tenants to bring misery to their local community, and I‘m sure most of our tenants will be really pleased to see us taking action against criminals.”
Councillor Michael Situ, Southwark cabinet member for communities and safety, added: “I hope this case sends out a clear message that we will use all of the powers available to us to close down properties linked to drug activity and anti-social behaviour, to help keep Southwark a safe place to be.”
The property was located close to another cannabis factory that was discovered last summer (pictured).