A WOMAN, who faced losing her home after a drugs closure notice was served on the property yesterday (Wednesday), has today (Thursday) avoided eviction. Lisa Body, also known as Lisa Turner, had her home in Pankhurst Crescent in Stevenage raided by police

A WOMAN, who faced losing her home after a drugs closure notice was served on the property yesterday (Wednesday), has today (Thursday) avoided eviction.

Lisa Body, also known as Lisa Turner, had her home in Pankhurst Crescent in Stevenage raided by police early yesterday morning.

Although no drugs were found and no arrests made, a closure notice was served on the basis of police evidence suggesting drugs were being used at the property and that there were numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour.

Ms Body appeared at Stevenage Magistrates Court today (Thursday) to learn if the three-month closure notice on the Stevenage Homes property would be sanctioned, leaving her homeless.

But Sarah Brewerton, senior anti-social behaviour officer at Stevenage Homes, believed there was not enough evidence for magistrates to sanction the closure notice, so instead asked for an Undertaking to be issued.

An Undertaking is a legal promise not to commit an act in the future, and it is thought that this particular Undertaking is the first of its kind in the county.

Ms Body is forbidden from using, or permitting anyone else from using, illegal drugs in her home.

She is forbidden from causing, or permitting anyone else from causing, anti-social behaviour.

She must also agree to have regular drugs tests taken.

If Ms Body breaches the Undertaking, the closure notice can be submitted to court and she again faces eviction.

Ms Brewerton said: "There wasn't enough evidence to get the closure so I asked for an Undertaking.

"Our aim is to sustain tenancy wherever possible.

"Lisa has said 'yes, I do have an addiction and need help with it', and without a home she can't tackle it.

"It's given her a chance to actually change her life around. She thought she was going to lose her home. This is her last chance. If this doesn't go right she will be evicted.