EXTRA security measures are being looked at after a break-in caused "extensive damage" at Halstead's beloved Empire Theatre.

The theatre, which was broken into and vandalised during the early hours of October 26, is a vital part of the community.

More than £2,500 was raised after the incident thanks to a public GoFundMe.

Now, Halstead Town Council has said it is "already taking measures to improve security at the Empire".

A town council agenda document says the Empire Trust has suggested a roller shutter should be installed, with this possibility "being explored".

It is one of two break-ins the town suffered from last month, within two weeks of one another.

Just 11 days before the Empire break-in, the WH Smith in the High Street was also broken into.

The incident took place at 11.25pm, where it was reported tobacco products were taken and the shop door was damaged at the WH Smith.

Police investigating say the man involved has been described as 6ft tall and wearing dark-coloured trousers and a cream/light-coloured hoodie which was pulled up over his face.

The two incidents happening has left some residents feeling "concerned" over the town’s anti-social behaviour and crime levels.

Highfields resident, Oliver Brooker, 22, said: “I’ve lived in Halstead all my life and obviously grew up here.”

“When I was a teenager, nothing like this ever really happened.

“It’s shocking that the incidents happened so close together too.

“I’m concerned for the community, and for the local shops.

“Halstead really shouldn’t be having crimes like this.”

Business owner, Ellie Furlong, 20, works from her at-home nail salon at Mill Green in Halstead.

She said: "It's crazy to think that these break-ins are even happening here."

"I didn't leave school very long ago, and when we'd all go out in town you might get a bit loud and silly but you'd never even think about damaging anything - or anyone.

"I'm fortunate enough to be able to work from my home, but it does concern me for my business because if crimes start to increase it could worry potential clients.

"I really hope last month was a one-off and that the businesses recover." 

Halstead Town Council stressed that those running businesses in Halstead ensure they have the "best security available" to prevent incidents.

A spokesman added: "Crime and antisocial behaviour during daylight hours have seen a significant reduction in Halstead.

"This is since the appointment of the street warden, and also thanks to the work done by the voluntary specials who monitor the streets for many hours every month.”

Police reassure residents

Insp Philip Jackson said: “Any burglary, particularly those targeting our hardworking businesses, is a concern and a priority for us.

“I would continue to urge anyone who may have information, or footage, which could assist us in connection with either of these burglaries to get in touch.

“We rely on the good links we have with the community in Halstead and offending of this nature does thankfully remain rare in the town.

“We’ve been carrying out proactive warrants in the area to target various offenders. These are only made possible thanks to the information we receive and the help we get from the community.

“We act on what you tell us, even if the response is not immediate it helps us build a case.

“When it comes to anti-social behaviour (ASB) in particular, we’ve recorded 84 incidents in Halstead over across the year to date. This is a decrease of 37% when compared with the same period last year.

“We are seeing the number of incidents trending in the right direction and I’m confident that’s as a result of the action we’re taking.

“Since July 2023, ASB hotspot patrolling has been taking place thanks to funding secured by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.

“The first phase of activity across 13 hotspot zones led to 101 arrests, 387 stop and searches, and the issuing of 112 fixed penalty notices (FPNs).

“The project also saw outreach work that engaged with more than 3,000 young people.

“An additional £1.6 million of funding was recently announced for a second phase of the scheme that is now underway in 15 areas of Essex.

“The money will be used for extra high-visibility police patrols, community safety patrols and crime intervention projects.”