The Top 12 Most Dangerous Places in East England
Choosing the right location for various life stages, from purchasing a first home to establishing a new business, is pivotal to our overall comfort and well-being. While some individuals opt to remain in their current area, many others seek out entirely new locations, raising important questions about safety and security.
One of the primary concerns when considering a new area is its safety. Crime rates and criminal activity play a crucial role in determining the suitability of a location for individuals, families, or businesses.
With our comprehensive reports on crime rates across the UK, we are dedicated to transparency, clarity, and thoroughness in all our endeavors. From pioneering studies on crime hotspots in London to in-depth analyses of the UK’s safest areas, we are industry leaders committed to keeping the country secure.
In our latest article, we will delve into the most dangerous areas across the East of England. We will dissect the key issues facing these regions, explore what makes them less desirable, and provide insights into how you can ensure your safety, regardless of where you choose to reside.
How Dangerous Is Eastern England?
The East of England, closely associated with the renowned counties of Essex and Norfolk, boasts sweeping views and captivating coastlines, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds. From the esteemed educational and cultural hub of Cambridge University to the vibrant coastal communities, the region offers a compelling blend of attractions. Additionally, with rapidly growing cities like Luton and Norwich, the appeal of East England is evident.
Join us as we break down Eastern England’s most dangerous areas and their implications for your future decisions for different types of security.
12. Thetford
Overall Crime Rate: 109.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Thetford, a town known for its striking contrast between natural forests and urban developments, presents a concerning overall crime rate of 109.7 crimes per 1000 residents. Disturbingly, 2 in every 5 crimes committed in Thetford are violent offenses, with significant statistics across antisocial behavior, criminal damage, and public order offenses, emphasising the urgent need for effective security measures in the area.
11. Southend-on-Sea
Overall Crime Rate: 110.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
Renowned for its vibrant culture and seaside allure, Southend-on-Sea harbors a less favorable reputation for criminal activity, evident in its overall crime rate of 110.9 crimes per 1000 residents. Shockingly, over 40% of the 17,772 crimes committed in 2023 were classified as violent offenses, accompanied by rising rates of public order offenses, antisocial behavior, and robbery, posing significant security concerns.
10. Sudbury
Overall Crime Rate: 114.1 Crimes Per 1000 People
Surprisingly making its mark as a high-ranking inclusion, Sudbury, an unassuming market town in Suffolk, exhibits a concerning crime rate of 114.1 crimes per 1000 residents. The town grapples with soaring numbers of violent crimes, antisocial behavior, shoplifting, and criminal damage, signaling a pressing need for enhanced security measures.
9. Waltham Abbey
Overall Crime Rate: 117.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
Despite its historic charm, Waltham Abbey’s overall crime rate of 117.2 crimes per 1000 residents and 2185 criminal offenses in 2023 raise understandable concerns. The town faces significant challenges related to violent crime, vehicle crimes, and antisocial behavior, necessitating a concerted focus on bolstering security and law enforcement.
8. King’s Lynn
Overall Crime Rate: 123.1 Crimes Per 1000 People
A hub for fishing communities, King’s Lynn has experienced substantial growth, accompanied by a surge in crime rates, reaching a concerning 123.1 crimes per 1000 residents. The town grapples with rising incidents of violent crime, antisocial behavior, and notably high rates of shoplifting, warranting immediate attention to address security challenges.
7. Huntingdon
Overall Crime Rate: 126.6 Crimes Per 1000 People
Despite its historical significance, Huntingdon’s crime rate stands at 126.6 crimes per 1000 residents, significantly higher than the regional average. The area faces prevalent issues related to violent crime, antisocial behavior, public order offenses, and drug-related crimes, necessitating comprehensive security measures.
6. Great Yarmouth
Overall Crime Rate: 129.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
Renowned for its sweeping sea views and coastal hideaways, Great Yarmouth’s soaring crime rate of 129.2 crimes per 1000 residents dominates local headlines. The town grapples with soaring numbers of violent crimes and antisocial behavior, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced security measures.
5. Harwich
Overall Crime Rate: 130.6 Crimes Per 1000 People
Despite its proud nautical history, Harwich’s position as one of the most dangerous areas in East England is a surprising revelation. With a crime rate climbing to 130.6 crimes per 1000 residents, the town faces exponential rates in violent crimes, antisocial behavior, and criminal damage, warranting immediate attention.
4. Borehamwood
Overall Crime Rate: 131.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
Known for its ties to the British filmmaking industry, Borehamwood’s startling crime rate of 131.9 crimes per 1000 residents raises concerns for those considering the area. The town grapples with major concerns related to antisocial behavior, violent crime, shoplifting, and vehicle crimes, signaling a turbulent year ahead for crime in Borehamwood.
3. Harlow
Overall Crime Rate: 134.1 Crimes Per 1000 People
Despite its impressive public collection and modern appeal, Harlow’s crime rate of 134.1 crimes per 1000 residents presents a significant cause for concern. The town faces prevalent issues related to violent crime, vehicle crimes, public order offenses, and antisocial behavior, necessitating comprehensive security measures.
2. Clacton-on-Sea
Overall Crime Rate: 141.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
As one of Eastern England’s premier coastal destinations, Clacton-on-Sea’s horrifying crime rate of 141.9 crimes per 1000 residents underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures. The town grapples with steadily increasing figures across violent crimes, antisocial behavior, and drug-related crimes, highlighting the pressing need for immediate action.
1. Maldon
Overall Crime Rate: 144.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Famed for its iconic sea salt, the small seaside town of Maldon ranks at number 1 on our report of the most dangerous areas in Eastern England. With a crime rate far surpassing similar areas, coming in at an alarming 144.7 crimes per 1000 residents, Maldon faces significant challenges related to violent crimes, theft, criminal damage, and public order offenses.
In conclusion, our journey through the top 12 most dangerous places in East England has shed light on the pressing need for enhanced security measures and comprehensive strategies to address the prevalent challenges in these areas. From the picturesque coastal hideaways to the historic market towns, each location presents unique concerns that require immediate attention and proactive solutions.
As we navigate through life’s milestones and consider the choice of location for our homes, businesses, and leisure activities, it becomes increasingly clear that safety and security are paramount. Our commitment at Paramount Security Solutions is to provide invaluable insights, security assessments, and tailored solutions to address the complex security challenges faced by residents and businesses in these areas.
We encourage readers to stay informed, remain vigilant, and seek professional guidance to ensure their safety and well-being. For personalised security assessments and expert guidance, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Paramount Security Solutions. Together, we can work towards creating safer and more secure environments for all.