HOUSING association residents say their block of flats is being overrun by drug users and dealers.

People living at Frank Clater Close, Colchester, say they have been putting up with worsening problems since February.

Now empty drug wraps and used needles are often found in the car park where residents say people often loiter.

Meanwhile runners press buzzers of neighbours to gain access to the block in the early hours of the morning.

The block is hidden out of sight from the nearby busy Ipswich Road.

Flats are run by Peadbody and some residents who suffer from depression and anxiety say they are having their issues made worse.

One resident said: “There have been people going up to cars parked outside and then quickly walking away - drug packets and injector needles have been found on the ground in the car park.

“It has caused extreme emotional distress over the last few months, being kept awake throughout the night, people buzzing at 4am to come into the flats and pressing other residents’ buzzers.

“Peabody offer supported housing for those with mental health issues and other support needs and have constantly been made aware of what is happening over the last few months.

“They have offered no support to the tenants affected by this.

“For a place which is meant to offer a safe haven, help people get back on their feet and help them to move on, they have completely dismissed the health of those affected and left them vulnerable.”

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

A spokesman for Peabody said: “We take all reports of crime and anti-social behaviour very seriously, and work closely with the police and our partners, to tackle any issues.

“We are aware of the concerns raised by residents at Frank Clater Close, and have been helping the police to gather intelligence to support their investigations - this includes reviewing CCTV footage of our buildings.

“We will continue to support residents, and work with the Police and other agencies to help resolve the problem.”