An abandoned hotel left to fall into disrepair has been shut off by Wirral Council and Merseyside Police.
The former Central Hotel on Clifton Crescent in Birkenhead was handed a full closure order following complaints from people of ongoing anti-social behaviour.
The property, which had become a hot-spot for criminality with regular reports of drug dealing and criminal damage taking place at the site, has been unoccupied since it closed in 2013.
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Wirral Council said there were also "serious concerns for the safety of people" getting into the building due to the structure being considerably weakened over the years as a result of previous fires, criminal damage and water damage.
The closure order hearing took place at Liverpool Magistrates Court on July 9 and it will remain in place until October 8.
There is an option to extend the closure order for a further three months after this date if it is anticipated the problems may return once the original order expires.
The owner of the building, based in Saudi Arabia, is supportive of the closure order, the council said.
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Mark Camborne, Wirral Council's assistant director for neighbourhood safety and transport, said: "Cases such as this show how important it is for partners to support those residents who are victims of anti-social behaviour and use the full powers available to us to act against people who make life a misery for their neighbours.
"It is also vital that people report problems to us so we can take action."
Anti-social behaviour can be reported using an online form here or by email to neighbour.nuisance@wirral.gov.uk.
People can also call 0151 606 2020 between 8.45am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday. An answerphone service is provided out of hours and your call will be returned the following working day.
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