People have been banned from accessing church grounds after complaints of drug dealing and antisocial behaviour.

A closure order has been granted, prohibiting people to enter or loiter at the grounds of Harlesden Methodist Church, in High Street.

After appearing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court today (January 5), police will now have the ability to arrest anyone who enters or is not authorised to be at the front outdoor space of the church.

A temporary closure notice was in place from December 29 and an application was made for a full closure order for three months.

The Metropolitan Police said the closure order was given with consent from the church.

It comes amid a crackdown on drug dealing in this area of Brent, with several other closure orders in place at different Harlesden businesses and properties.

Brazilian bar Santafé Hall in High Street, Harlesden, was slammed with a closure order on December 28 which ends on March 27 this year.

Other local businesses in Harlesden have separately been issued closure orders after alleged antisocial behaviour and drug dealing in the area, following a mass raid on eight businesses and homes in August.

Sefar Café and El Tacos will not be allowed to open until February 23, 2024.

Fortune Launderette & Dry Cleaning, in Park Parade, will remain closed until March 4.

Baraca Hands hair salon, in Harlesden High Street will remain shut until March 7.