Uttlesford has seen significant reductions in anti-social behaviour according to a recent public meeting in Great Dunmow.

Saffron Walden MP Kemi Badenoch and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex, Roger Hirst, held a forum to discuss community crime in Uttlesford.

PFCC Hirst pointed to several successful improvements, such as a 5.7 per cent decrease in overall crime, a 37.6 per cent drop in anti-social behaviour, and reductions in domestic abuse and violence against individuals.

MP Badenoch mentioned the recruitment of 905 additional officers since 2016 has brought the Essex Police headcount to 3,755: the highest in the force's history.

The discussion also touched on collaborative efforts with the Fire and Rescue Service, which has evolved from a "toxic culture" to a model of positive transformation.

Their efforts have led to a 20 per cent reduction in house fires in the last five years, prompt response to road incidents, and effective pandemic response coordination.

PFCC Roger Hirst said: "Our public meetings are a great way to hear directly from local communities about any concerns they might have or issues they are experiencing.

“The meetings are also a great opportunity for us to brief residents on how we are achieving the priorities in both our Police and Crime Plan and Fire and Rescue Plan,.

"This includes our recent success in bringing all crime down in Essex by 5.9 per cent year-on-year to the end of January 2024."

Public involvement in policing and emergency response was discussed at the meeting, with both MP Badenoch and Mr Hirst underscoring their commitment to fostering safe and secure communities.

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MP Badenoch said: "This meeting was a great opportunity to discuss community crime with Essex Police and residents from across Uttlesford - tackling issues ranging from vehicle theft, to hare coursing and anti-social behaviour.

"This Government’s commitment to hiring 20,000 officers, and the hard work by Roger and his team are having a real impact on our communities.

"The increased officer numbers are benefitting the Uttlesford district and contribute to the ongoing efforts to maintain community safety and improve police visibility in our towns and villages."