LOCKS to a block of flats in Queensbury have been changed in a bid to deter a gang of youths causing anti-social behaviour.

Police say there has been a persistent problem at Azure Court, on Kingsbury Road, due to youngsters gathering inside the block and causing criminal damage, graffiti, littering and harassment as well as using drugs.

An on-site meeting was held with the police, a concerned resident and the block’s management team - Gem Estate Management.

The Queensbury Safer Neighbourhoods Team (Brent Police) discussed the issue of security and underlying reasons for the problem.

A police spokesman said: "The management team agreed to replace the two entry locks which were easily bypassed by swiping a card, and add extra signage warning vandals that they will be prosecuted. Mosquito devices are to be installed and hand delivered letters were sent to every household informing them not to grant entry to anybody they do not know as requested by the police."

Whilst on patrol at Azure Court on March 10, the team stopped and arrested a 13-year-old for possession of an offensive weapon and suspected criminal damage. He has since been bailed to return.

Sergeant Sashi Vagadia, from the Queensbury Safer Neighbourhoods Team, said: “We will continue to patrol the block and meet with the management company and reassure the community that we will take action on those who seek to disrupt the lives of the residents that this will no longer be tolerated and the block is not somewhere to hang out."