Essex Police said it “categorically rejects” suggestions parts of Southend-on-Sea are a “no-go zone” after a violent incident in the city earlier this summer.
The force issued a statement responding to “reporting in the national media, which is disparaging of Southend”, that claimed areas of the city are fraught with youth violence.
Several arrests were made on 30 July after fighting broke out near Southend’s Adventure Island theme park, with footage on social media appearing to show some people carrying machetes.
Eight teenagers were charged over the violence and disorder including a 16-year-old boy, who appeared in court on 3 August accused of attempted murder, possession of a firearm, a prohibited weapon in a public place, and violent disorder.
In a statement, Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett said: “I completely and categorically reject the assertion that any part of Southend is a ‘no-go zone’.
“Thousands of people come to the city each and every week and have a fantastic time, enjoying everything it has to offer.
“Despite the picture some are trying to paint, Southend is a really safe place. Crime is falling here and has been for some time, and has been falling at a quicker rate than most other parts of the county.”
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According to Essex Police, there were 1,500 fewer crimes across the Southend district overall last year – the equivalent of a 6.5% fall – and 1,000 fewer violent crimes – a 12% drop on the previous year.
Operation Union, which runs throughout the summer, has had a “really positive impact”, the officer added, and has led to more than 75 arrests and 230 stop and searches.
“We want people to come here and enjoy the beautiful seafront, the world-famous pier, and the fantastic city centre,” the statement concluded.
Southend was made a city in 2022 following a campaign by its late MP Sir David Amess, who was stabbed to death at a constituency surgery in nearby Leigh-on-Sea.
Queen Elizabeth II made the decision following his death in October 2021.
The 16-year-old charged over the incident on 30 July was remanded into youth detention and will next appear at Basildon Crown Court on 2 September.
Prosecutor Godfried Duah told a court a machete or a large knife was spotted after disorder broke out in the crowded town as families enjoyed the summer holiday sunshine.