The level of police presence in Thaxted, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Uttlesford, is a frequently asked question. While a definitive measure of ‘presence’ is complex, we can assess it through crime rates, safety scores, and response times.
Thaxted has a population of 4167 and currently demonstrates a crime rate of 45.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a comparatively safer environment. The area also boasts a commendable safety score of 87 out of 100, further reinforcing this perception, with the UK average being 79.
However, understanding how quickly police respond is equally important. Data from 2024 indicates a mean immediate response time of 15 minutes. An ‘immediate response’ typically signifies an emergency requiring urgent attention. For ‘priority’ incidents, the mean response time is considerably longer, averaging 259 minutes. A ‘priority’ incident still requires police attention but is not considered an immediate emergency.
It's important to note that response times are averages and can fluctuate based on factors such as incident severity, resource availability, and geographical location within the area. The longer priority response time doesn't necessarily indicate a lack of police presence, but rather the demands placed on resources and the need to allocate them effectively across the wider region. While the crime rate is low, ensuring efficient response times remains a priority for the local police force. Factors influencing these times include call volume and the need to cover a broader geographical area. Further information about police services and how to report incidents can be found on the Essex Police website, which serves the Uttlesford area.