INCIDENTS of anti-social behaviour (ASB) fell by 15 per cent across Uttlesford compared to the previous year, it has been revealed.

Between April 2012 and March 2013 Essex Police recorded 1,277 ASB incidents in the district – down from 1,506 in 2011/12.

Since 2004 there have been 16 Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) granted by magistrates for the Uttlesford District. Five were granted in 2011 but only three last year.

Richie Farrant, chairman of the Uttlesford Community Partnership, which looks at how to tackle anti-social behaviour as one of its responsibilities, said: “The significant fall in the number of recorded ASB incidents in Uttlesford for 2012/13 is good news indeed.

“Essex is one of the safest counties to live in Britain and the statistics show that Uttlesford is one of the safest parts of Essex to live. But we must never rest on our laurels because in reality even a single case of ASB is one too many.

He added: “It is important, however, that residents understand ASB behaviour represents a continued pattern of behaviour or persistent offending.

“One-off incidents do not necessarily constitute anti-social behaviour and we have to be mindful of cultural differences and the fact that people have different tolerance levels.

“Where repeat incidents of anti-social behaviour do occur we will not hesitate to use every power we have at our disposal to deal with them.”

Any resident in Uttlesford who feels they are the victim of anti-social behaviour can contact UDC’s ASB co-ordinator Fiona Gardiner on 01799 510546 or e-mail fgardiner@uttlesford.gov.uk

In an emergency, where a person’s safety is at risk, residents should always dial 999.