SECURITY must improve at a crime ridden park according to those who fear using it.

Senior police officers are aware of fears raised by those using Northlands Park and have promised action will be taken, although they insist the problems are not getting worse.

Park users have claimed, despite family friendly events often held during the day, people are at risk of becoming victims of crime during the morning and evening.

Councillor Imelda Clancy, who lives close to Northlands Park, said: “Residents should not have to live in this fear - Northlands Park is a beautiful place that everybody should be able to enjoy, not feel cut off from.

“We need to see action, and we need to see it now.

“We need increased measures such a security cameras, but also a more regular police presence that can actually make people feel safe again.”

Insp Steve Parry responded: “We do not want anyone to feel unsafe in Basildon and our officers work resolutely to prevent crime and protect anyone who lives or works in the district.

“We are conscious of anti-social behaviour in Northlands Park and are in discussions with partner agencies and MPs to tackle the issue of anti-social behaviour across the district.

“We are already working towards this goal with Operation Quiet, which sees our community policing teams focus on these issues, and hope this hard work will see a reduction in reports throughout Basildon.

“Although Northlands Park has been the scene of some significant incidents and arrests over the past few years, we are not receiving any increased reports of crime in this area.

“Since 2015, we’ve made it a priority to recruit volunteers from the community to work alongside the force as active citizens who support us to tackle crime and the fear of crime in the area.”

Councillor Kevin Blake said: “Basildon Council is committed to making the borough a safer place and ensuring our parks and open spaces are pleasant places for residents and visitors to spend time in.

“We continue to work closely with Essex Police.

“Our CCTV policy is currently under review to ensure it is GDPR compliant, with a report being prepared for the corporate resources committee meeting on Thursday, October 4.”