A group of residents in Abergavenny have been left fearing for their safety and privacy after a string of incidents involving neighbours including anti-social behaviour and vandalism to property.

Those at St Helen’s Close have alleged some of the incidents where they live include stalking by a neighbour - amounting to video footage of them in their gardens being posted publicly - as well as car tyres being slashed and a knife incident after which one person was arrested and sectioned.

“The first complaint I had made was about loud music,” they said, while crediting Monmouthshire Housing Association with resolving that issue.

“But our living conditions here have only worsened over time. It’s soul-destroying to feel like no concrete action has been taken, it feels like we’re nobody, nothing. We don’t count.”

“I worked at Tesco in Abergavenny for 44 years, but I gave up work due to fear of my neighbour following me to and from work. When I reported it I was simply told to find a different way, and it is this treatment that makes some of my neighbours and I feel irrelevant.”

The group approached The Chronicle after reading about similar concerns expressed by those at another block of flats in the town belonging to Monmouthshire Housing Association (MHA). It has prompted some to question whether the issues experienced by tenants run deeper than their own accommodation, and perhaps across the town.

Among the other issues residents at St Helen’s Close say they have experienced are rodents within ceilings and cavity walls, overgrown communal areas and a CCTV camera - which should record everything that happens outside 24/7 - that doesn’t work.

They also allege that vehicles parked at St Helen’s close have had doors and windows damaged and they have accused MHA of “hiding behind confidentiality.”

In a statement, the organisation said it was aware of the allegations and that it was working to ensure St Helen’s Close is a safe and secure place to live.

“Monmouthshire Housing Association takes reports of anti-social behaviour and community safety concerns seriously and is committed to supporting residents at St Helen's Close,” a spokesperson said.

“Our Neighbourhood and Community Safety Team continue to engage with residents to understand the impact that anti-social behaviour and community safety issues may have on them, investigate concerns that are reported to us and take appropriate and proportionate action where the evidence and circumstances warrant it.”

“We work closely with Gwent Police and other agencies where issues fall outside our remit or where a coordinated response is required. Measures are also in place to support community safety, including CCTV within the area, which acts as a deterrent and can assist enquiries where incidents are reported.”

“We have been actively engaging with residents to understand any concerns; address issues brought to our attention and ensure appropriate support is available where needed. We would encourage any resident experiencing concerns to contact us directly and would be happy to meet with residents to discuss their experiences and identify any further actions required. Our focus remains on working with the community to help ensure St Helen's Close is a safe and secure place to live.”