A block of flats is so blighted by drugs, antisocial behaviour and fire damage that residents are embarrassed about their own homes. The Argus reported how tenants in Park Court in Davigdor Road, Hove, are confronted by mattresses, used needles and homeless people sleeping, having sex and taking drugs at their front door. Reporter Patrick Barlow visited to see just how bad it has become.
When you walk from one side of Davigdor Road to the other – from new build flats to the nearby decades-old block – the difference between the two is conspicuous. One building is fresh, clean and modern one of the towering developments which are popping up across Brighton and Hove . But stepping into Park Court the building feels run down and teeming with problems.
It’s clear why residents said they felt “embarrassed” by the building when they met staff from housing association Sanctuary last week. The smell of smoke clings to one end of the second floor after a potentially catastrophic fire earlier this year, a faulty lift means disabled residents fear for their freedom, and terrified tenants have to contend with a homeless population who slip into the building to shelter, bringing drugs and violence with them. Rubbish discarded in a radiator by homeless people (Image: Andrew Gardner | The Argus) Residents were happy to speak to The Argus but feared having their names published due to the problems they witness.
One said: “Two days ago as I was coming down the stairs there was some.