Colchester City Council celebrates a 13.9% reduction in reported anti-social behaviour between June 2024 and May 2025 thanks to partnerships between the council, Essex Police, and local organisations.
The council remains committed to safeguarding those who live, work, and spend time in the city. Whether attending events, supporting local businesses, or exploring its historic surroundings, public safety is a top priority. That’s why the council, in collaboration with its partners, continues to invest in measures that deter anti-social behaviour and fosters a secure environment.
Progress has been supported by more than £1 million in Safer Streets funding, which has helped expand patrols, upgrade lighting and CCTV, and provide support to residents who may be at risk.
The summer months and lighter evenings provide a boost to the nighttime economy, and with this the council continues to work with external security partners to maintain a visible presence in the city centre. Two officers are deployed on Friday and Saturday nights from 8pm to 4am. Wearing Community Safety high-visibility vests and equipped with pub-link radios, they respond to concerns and assist police with evidence gathering when needed.
Cllr Jocelyn Law, Portfolio Holder for Community and Public Protection, said: “Colchester is a safe and welcoming city, and we’re proud of the progress we’ve made in reducing anti-social behaviour. But we know that some have a perception that the city isn’t safe. That’s why we’re asking everyone to look out for one another and report anything that doesn’t feel right.
“We can all be aware, informed, and ready to act. We have a thriving and busy nighttime economy, and we want everyone to enjoy visiting with confidence.”
The council and its partners continue to take action to improve public safety across the city. Neighbourhood Wardens are central to this work, issuing 19 Fixed Penalty Notices and two Community Protection Warnings in recent weeks. Joint patrols with Phoenix Futures and Essex Youth Service are helping address street drinking and youth-related concerns respectively, through early intervention and support-led enforcement.
Environmental improvements, including a deep clean of St Johns Car Park, contribute to a safer and more welcoming public space. Meanwhile, the SOS Bus on Colchester High Street offers vital support to anyone who may be vulnerable on Friday and Saturday nights, reinforcing the city’s commitment to keeping people safe – those interested in volunteering with the SOS Bus can find more information here.
A spokesperson for Essex Police, said: “ASB accounts for 8.2% of all reported crime in Colchester, with a rate of 7.8 ASB crimes per 1,000 people. This places Colchester at significantly below the national average of 14.09 ASB crimes per 1,000 people, making it one of the safer areas in England and Wales for antisocial behaviour.
“We are proud of this improvement in Colchester, reinforcing the reputation that it is a safe and welcoming city. It shows the strength of local partnerships, targeted patrols, and community-led interventions.”
If you experience any antisocial behaviour, you can report it online here or contact the Police on 999 for emergencies, or 101 for non-emergencies. More information on the Colchester Community Safety Partnership, that works collaboratively to tackle community safety matters, can be found here.
Page last reviewed: 5 September 2025