Cookers switched off at Truro takeaway after police shut down ASB hotspot

Nine Calenick Street has gone quiet. A three-month closure order now stands between Central Grill and anyone trying to get through its door after dark, and the padlock is courtesy of Truro Magistrates rather than the shutters coming down for the night.

What the court ordered

Truro Magistrates issued the closure order at a hearing on Wednesday 16 September, meaning the late-night kebab and burger shop cannot operate as a business for the next three months. The order follows reports of anti-social behaviour at the premises, which the court heard had become a persistent and serious nuisance to members of the public.

Only the building’s owner, emergency services or statutory agencies are now permitted inside. Anyone who breaches the order faces a fine, imprisonment, or both.

How it came together

PC Charlotte Grimstead of the Truro Neighbourhood Police Team worked with the force’s legal department and Cornwall Council’s ASB Team to secure the order.

Neighbourhood Team Leader Sergeant Dave Pearce said the move was about reassurance as much as enforcement. “It is important that the local residents, businesses and visitors to Truro city centre feel safe,” he said. “This is a positive step to reassure the public that anti-social behaviour in any form will not be tolerated. We will monitor the premises over the next three months and will take a robust approach towards any reported breaches of the closure order.”

He added that officers want anyone who sees anti-social behaviour to report it as soon as possible through the force website, so it can be dealt with.

Steve Lennon, Cornwall Council’s ASB officer, said the case showed what the council and police can do working together. “Cornwall Council Anti-Social Behaviour Team and Devon & Cornwall Police will continue to work in partnership to address any ASB issues within the county of Cornwall,” he said. “This order being granted shows the strong collaborative approach that we will take to ensure that Cornwall remains a safe place to work, visit and live.” He thanked the businesses who came forward, and the people of Truro for their support.

Chances to speak to the neighbourhood team

Officers are holding two public drop-ins for anyone with concerns to raise face to face. The first is at Truro Cathedral on Saturday 19 September, 1pm to 3pm. The second is at Tesco Superstore, Garras Wharf, Truro, on Saturday 24 October, between 2pm and 4pm.

To report anti-social behaviour, call 101 or visit the force website and use the dedicated reporting form. Reports can also go, entirely anonymously, to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.