Mill End becoming safer commuter zone

Many people opt for outlying suburban areas of London where they can rent property at reasonable rate and commute easily into the capital, with a Hertfordshire neighbourhood now proving its appeal as a safe residential area.

The Mill End area, near to Watford and Rickmansworth on the Metropolitan Line, has reported an improved feeling of neighbourhood security, thanks to a concerted police effort to make it a more attractive place to live and commute from.

The Watford Observer reported that the efforts of the cross-Herts Three Rivers Community Safety Partnership had yielded results, with a crackdown on anti-social practices like graffiti and more activities for the young giving residents a feeling of greater security.

An increased number of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) on the streets was also hailed as a positive move, while encouragement of Neighbourhood Watch schemes and more reporting of crimes were also identified as factors.

Partnership chairman Roger Seabourne told the Watford Observer: "It is clear that residents are feeling safer. They told us that they were seeing more PCSOs on the beat and that they have noticed a drop in graffiti and vandalism."

Mortgages on property in outlying areas of London can still remain highly priced, especially if commuter routes into the centre are good, making rental property a more viable option for property-seekers in areas like Mill End.

Published 24th January, 2008

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