Extra summer patrols by police across Chelmsford City Centre
The extra patrols will run alongside existing community safety activity
Presence by Essex Police in Chelmsford will increase on Friday and Saturday nights this summer, with officers carrying out high-visibility patrols in the city centre and parks.
The additional patrols will take place between 7pm and 3am across the city.
Some locations include Central Park, Bell Meadow and Chelmer Valley Local Nature Reserve.
The patrols are jointly funded by Essex Police and Chelmsford City Council.
Chelmsford's District Commander, Chief Inspector Aaron Homatopoulos, said:
"Visible policing plays a vital role in preventing crime and anti-social behaviour, reassuring residents and visitors, and allowing us to respond quickly when issues arise.
"These additional patrols will complement the work already taking place across Chelmsford, including our close partnership with CCTV operators, local businesses and council teams. By working together, we can ensure a coordinated approach to keeping people safe.
"We continue to carry out targeted patrols in areas where intelligence tells us enforcement is needed most. That work is delivering results, with crime in Chelmsford city centre down almost five per cent year on year. Knife-enabled crime across the district has also fallen by almost 18 per cent, while serious violence is down 29 per cent.
"We understand the concerns some people may have following the recent knife-related incident in Central Park. Two people were swiftly arrested, charged and brought before the courts, and it is important to remember there is no ongoing threat to the public."
Councillor Natacha Dudley, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Chelmsford City Council, said:
"Chelmsford City Council and Essex Police work closely together every day to help keep our communities safe.
"Following the tragic incident in Central Park last month, it is understandable that some people may feel concerned. While there is no ongoing risk to the public, these additional patrols will provide extra reassurance and help ensure everyone can enjoy the city safely this summer.
"We're grateful to Essex Police for working with us to deliver this increased visible presence and reinforce that Chelmsford remains a safe place to live, work and visit."