A former resident disputes recent claims labeling Harlow, Essex, as the “most dangerous” town, citing community spirit.
Friends would criticize aspects of the town, but it never seemed worse than other places though. They didn’t always feel safe growing up there. Like any town, some areas felt less safe, while other spots felt fine to walk alone. The “most dangerous” title was shocking and disappointing.
Growing up, Harlow had a strong community spirit. People cared deeply about local causes, and they always looked out for each other. This was clear when people fought to save The Square, a music venue that hosted famous bands. The Square brought the community together.
The Square felt like the heart of the town. People protested its planned closure, and when it closed, they cherished mementos. They saved parts of the stage. Residents knew each other and fought together. They wanted to keep their meeting place open.
Many families moved from London to Harlow for a better life. Now, more Londoners move there too. Harlow offers an easy commute for city workers. Trains reach Stansted Airport quickly, since the location sits between London and Cambridge.
Harlow gave hope to past generations. It still offers hope to newcomers. Terminus House provides refuge for Londoners. The old office building became emergency housing, supporting people from Newham and Hackney.
Some parts of Harlow feel unsafe to residents. Some areas are known as dangerous spots. As a reporter, the author covers local crime. Crime reports can make people want to leave.
The author fondly remembers childhood in Harlow. They learned to cycle with friends, then they raced to nearby green parks. They picked berries and saved hedgehogs. As a family, they enjoyed the town park. They swung for hours, carefree.
The town center felt safe too. They went to the Odeon cinema. Meeting friends for cheese toasties was normal. They may have complained but never felt truly afraid.
The author was shocked by the “most dangerous” title. It does not match their experience of Harlow, which expanding but feels small. Everyone knows everyone else. It has a strong community and kind people. Some areas might be best avoided, still “most dangerous” seems too extreme.
The town is part of a Home Office crime reduction plan. The scheme aims to make it permanently safe and The Stow area gets special attention in Essex. Chief Inspector Paul Austin spoke about this project. He wants The Stow to be a safe place, although residents say that is not always the case. This project is meant to change things.
More officers will patrol, stopping antisocial behavior. They will arrest violent offenders and drug dealers. Partners from other services will help. They want residents to see they care about the area.
Councillor Dan Swords also spoke. The council wants to protect communities. He said the project would tackle crime and antisocial behavior. It will help residents feel less left behind.
The project succeeded elsewhere. Police and others will work with locals. They plan to stop gangs and antisocial behavior. They want to solve the area’s long-term problems.
More police and community officers will patrol and the council wants to reassure residents. They want to ensure problems do not return. The goal is to renew the neighborhood. They want residents to feel proud again.
The Stow needs to be a safe, welcoming place. The council has let residents down, they admitted. They said they will change things. They will end crime and violence. They will protect the community and improve the area.