Antisocial behaviour crackdown in Uttlesford
Great Dunmow will benefit from new CCTV and automatic number plate recognition cameras
Almost £90,000 is being spent in an Essex town to crack down on antisocial behaviour, as worried residents blast “intimidating” yobs.
Great Dunmow will benefit from new CCTV and automatic number plate recognition cameras, funding for street wardens, improved street lighting, youth activities, as well as funding for the expansion of neighbourhood watch groups.
The cash injection is part of a funding pot of more than £6.5 million from the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, and is aimed at making Essex safer. The town has previously been named by Muddy Stillettos as one of the best places to live.
Projects in Wickford, Navestock and Chelmsford are also getting funding boosts.
Residents hope the cash funding will help tackle various antisocial behaviour issues across the town. Rebecca Lamb, 39, said: “I am pleased to see the investment, it is needed across the town. We’ve had issues with antisocial behaviour for some time.
“We have groups of youths wearing face coverings and hoods, drinking and taking drugs in the street. At times, they are using speakers, shouting and swearing. It can be intimidating.
“We also have issues with boy racers and nuisance drivers. Hopefully, the CCTV, wardens and number plate recognition cameras will help deal with these issues. I think lots of people will also be pleased to see this.”
Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “Safe and secure communities are the bedrock on which we build success, prosperity and well-being for all. I am delighted to allocate Local PFCC Safer Streets funding of £294,346 to improve CCTV, install safety measures and increase community safety patrols in key areas across Essex.
“In response to ongoing concerns raised by residents in Great Dunmow regarding the lack of youth provision, we are investing in youth-focused initiatives as part of our Safer Streets approach.
"This funding will help deliver positive, diversionary opportunities that support young people to feel engaged, safe, and connected to their community.”