Squatters who invaded two houses were given their marching orders in a “rare and extreme action” by the council and police.

The two vacant semi-detached houses in Denison Road, Colliers Wood, were relieved of their unwelcome house guests after Merton Police secured a closure order.

According to police, residents and businesses had reported the squatters for a series of anti-social behaviour incidents and crimes, including shoplifting, fighting and general disorder.

After they were arrested several times for various reasons, a full case was presented to Wimbledon Magistrates Court on Friday 25 November, who issued an immediate Closure Order.

Sergeant Tony Richardson, from Colliers Wood safer neighbourhood team, said: “With the patience and support of our local residents and businesses, we have taken permanent action to close these properties down.

“This is police, council and community coming together in partnership to effectively tackle a long term local problem."

Merton Council said it is now seeking to take ownership of the property and recoup in order to “recoup accumulating costs”.

Councillor Edith Macauley, cabinet member for community safety, said: "This is a very rare and extreme action which residents and local businesses were very supportive of due to the huge impact the squatters and their behaviour were having on the area.

She added: “It is this commitment to the cause that has helped get the necessary results and ensured that we are looking after the needs of the other residents in the area and working to keep the borough as clean and safe as possible."

Anyone who sees new squatters trying to enter the premises should call police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

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