23.1.2008 - Magna Housing Association takes a zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour

Magna Housing Association (MHA) has yet again proved that it is a responsible landlord and that anti-social behaviour by its residents will not be tolerated.

The latest eviction was of a Dorchester resident, Julie Martin, following a catalogue of anti social behaviour incidents. Ms Martin’s eviction is the second that MHA has made following residents being awarded ‘demoted tenancies’, which have proved to be an essential tool in helping to reduce anti social behaviour. In April 2007, the court awarded a demoted tenancy to Ms Martin following a request from MHA’s housing officers.

Director of MHA, David Aldwinckle, commented, “We have been working hard with Ms Martin since the demoted tenancy to resolve some of the issues. Unfortunately, the anti social behaviour continued and a catalogue of incidents were recorded which made life intolerable for other residents. As a result an eviction was the only possible way forward.”

The Section Commander for Dorchester, Police Inspector Les Fry, added, ‘We had received a number of complaints from neighbours relating to Anti Social behaviour, being committed by persons either living at or visiting Julie Martins home. This behaviour was unacceptable to all concerned and reduced the quality of life for those living nearby. We have worked closely with Magna to resolve the situation, which very sadly has resulted in this lady losing her home. I hope that this eviction sends a message to others, that their home is at risk, if they do not heed the support and help offered.‘

MHA hopes that the conclusion of this case will go some way to highlighting its zero tolerance of anti social behaviour. MHA is in the business of providing homes rather than taking them away, however, no one has the right to inflict such poor behaviour on their community as was the case here.