Occupants of two homes in Workington have been evicted after neighbours suffered over 20 years of anti-social behaviour.
Action was taken by Westfield Housing Association and police to tackle the issues on Windsor Road and a court order was issued this month.
Cumbria police said for many years, residents were too frightened to report incidents to them due to fear of repercussions.
It added: “Officers have been able to work with the local community to problem solve the issues and encourage residents to report incidents.
In one statement a resident said, “Everyone is scared of them, but no one will ever make a statement to the police” and “My health has been affected, and it has made me really miserable living here.
“I feel like if they were to move me, and my family would be a lot happier and not worry every time I heard a raised voice on the street.”
Cumbria police added: “We would like to thank the community for reporting incidents to us about the behaviour of the individuals involved without their support we wouldn’t have the outcomes we have had.
A police spokesman added: “The community were scared to report the anti-social behaviour by the individuals involved, with it becoming normalised.
“However, this behaviour was having an impact on many residents’ lives.
“Thanks to the residents working with officers and partners we have successfully evicted them from the properties and improved the lives of the community.
A Westfield Housing Association spokesman said: “We recognise the significant and long-term impact that anti-social behaviour has had on residents in the community, and we do not underestimate the distress this has caused over many years.
“These evictions reflect our commitment to working closely with Cumbria Constabulary and other partners to take firm and proportionate action where behaviour breaches tenancy conditions and seriously affects others’ quality of life.
“We would like to thank residents for their courage in reporting incidents and supporting the investigation. We know this is not always easy, but community information is vital in helping us and our partners achieve positive outcomes and restore a sense of safety for local people.”
Residents who are having any issues with this type of behaviour in their communities are encouraged to speak to their local Community Beat Officer or PCSO.
