Crime and disorder is to be tackled thanks to a £2,000 cash injection.

The Government money will be used to fund a pilot scheme, involving Rochford Council and Castle Point Council, to make anti-social behaviour orders effective.

The news follows a ten-month review of how local authorities tackle crime in Essex carried out by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary.

In the report, Castle Point's community safety partnership, involving the borough council and police, was praised for the way it worked closely with colleagues in Rochford.

However, council members were told more emphasis had to be put into addressing the fear of crime felt by the public.

Alan Longford, director of health and housing at Castle Point Council, said inspectors praised Essex County Council and Essex Police's commitment to cutting crime.

He said the agencies' co-operation had also scored good marks in his report to the local authority's community safety committee.

His report also revealed CCTV cameras and alcohol free zones were being introduced in known crime hotspots.

Published Monday, April 7, 2003

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