Closure order shuts down Prestwich shop after drugs bust during Oasis concert

Monday, 4 August 2025 15:01

By David Murphy

A convenience store in Prestwich has been forcibly closed for three months after police seized cannabis, counterfeit goods, and arrested two men in connection with drug offences

A Prestwich convenience store has been handed a three-month Closure Order following repeated incidents of suspected drug dealing and anti-social behaviour, Greater Manchester Police has confirmed.

The order, granted on Friday 25 July 2025, comes after officers from the Prestwich Neighbourhood Policing Team raided the store on Bury New Road during the Oasis concert at Heaton Park.

On the evening of Saturday 19 July, while tens of thousands gathered for the event, police received a tip-off that drugs were being sold directly from the shop counter. Officers responded immediately and detained two men in their 40s who attempted to flee the scene.

Inside, officers recovered a substantial quantity of cannabis, valued between £2,500 and £3,000 on the street, alongside counterfeit cigarettes and fake scratch cards. No formal charges have yet been brought, but investigations are ongoing.

This was not the first time the premises had attracted police attention. According to GMP, it followed two earlier arrests linked to drug offences at the same location.

Due to what was described as “persistent criminal activity” and its damaging impact on the community, a temporary 48-hour closure was initially imposed under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. That action has now been extended by Manchester Magistrates, with a full Closure Order lasting until 23:59 on 24 October 2025.

Access to the premises is now strictly prohibited, with exceptions only for emergency services, the landlord, or authorised letting agents.

Inspector Gareth Edwards, who authorised the initial closure, said the police response demonstrated “a clear message” to those involved in illegal activity. “Your actions will not be tolerated,” he stated. “Closure Orders offer a long-term solution to address the root causes of crime and anti-social behaviour.”

PC Afzal, who presented the case in court, thanked residents for their ongoing support and urged anyone who spots suspicious activity or breaches of the closure to report it immediately.