By Jamie Black

A DUNDEE MAN last night complained of “junkies” squatting in his close, littering the landings and causing an anti-social disturbance for himself and neighbours.

David Barrie, of Strathmartine Road, also told The Courier his complaint had been passed between the city council and police and that he is still waiting for action to be taken.

Mr Barrie said he has regularly come across drug paraphernalia scattered near his doorway and is convinced that at least eight drug users are using the close.

He said, “We have had a terrible, disastrous problem up here.

“I have been on to the environmental health about this, who told me to go back to the police.

“However, the police just told me it was the council’s problem.

“There are syringes, rubber gloves and tins of food scattered about. There are junkies living in our close while we are all out working.

“One resident upstairs was confronted by a man injecting himself at their door.

“We pay our council tax for this. We should have security doors.”

A city council spokesman said any reports of needles discarded in closes should be reported to the rapid response team on 01382 433063.

The spokesman added that all evening reports must be directed to police, who are also capable of cleaning up dangerous litter.

A police spokeswoman said, “Where there is any evidence of substance abuse or anti-social behaviour taking place Tayside Police will always investigate further.

“The removal of any drugs paraphernalia, including the safe disposal of any needles, is carried out by Dundee City Council.

“If anyone has any concerns about any crime or anti-social behaviour taking place in their neighbourhood then I would urge them to get in touch with us.”

Mr Barrie fears both police and the council are passing the buck while his once peaceful, pleasant neighbourhood deteriorates.

He added, “We used to have a wonderful landing here.

“I put security doors in about three years ago and paid for them myself, but they were kicked in when a junky started renting one of the flats.

“We have applied to the council for funding grants to pay for new doors but we have heard nothing back.

“The police told me I have to catch one of the junkies myself before an ASBO can be issued before anything can be done.”