Residents of Fartown, a neighbourhood within Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, are increasingly vocal about the issues they face, ranging from violent crime to the presence of anti-social behaviour in their community. Recent statistics from 2024 have designated Fartown and the nearby Leeds Road area as one of the most dangerous locations in West Yorkshire, reporting around 1,300 incidents of violent crime and sexual offences. This places it as the third worst area in the region, following Leeds city centre and central Bradford.
Local opinions on the situation in Fartown vary, with some residents expressing a sense of resignation to the challenges the area faces. Martin, a resident of Rawthorpe who is familiar with Fartown, highlighted a particular shop that has become a hub for begging in the evenings. He stated, "They can be there from 6pm until 3 or 4 in the morning. It's their lifestyle, begging and taking drugs. You see mums with prams getting bothered by them, always asking for a £1."
Others have shared concerns regarding the impact of multiculturalism on community standards. Maasai, a long-term resident of Fartown, spoke about his belief that issues in the area reflect broader national problems. He asserted, "Multiculturalism is causing issues; people are not abiding by values of 'when in Rome do as the Romans do'." Maasai accused the local authority of being ineffective in managing issues like fly-tipping, referring to piles of waste accumulating behind shops, which also pose an obstruction to dog walkers and cyclists. He further lamented a perceived erosion of community standards, claiming, "People are not disciplined and there are no consequences."
Despite acknowledging these issues, Maasai also expressed a fondness for Fartown, stating, “I like Fartown - I am not moving. I like Huddersfield - it is not a bad place to be.” His sentiments echoed those of other residents who have mixed feelings about the area. Vicky, a local childminder, noted concerns about safety after hearing about a boy allegedly brandishing a knife in front of some girls, prompting police involvement.
Conversely, Peter, 68, remarked on his positive experiences in Fartown, stating, "It’s alright," and praising the local culinary scene, particularly the fish and chips from the Jolly Fryer. Usama, 35, also conveyed a sense of security, mentioning the noticeable police presence in the area, and asserted, “I am not hearing any news about crime.”
Not all accounts were uniformly positive; one business owner expressed frustration over the lack of effective measures to combat knife crime, referencing the murder of 15-year-old Khayri Mclean in 2022 as a significant event. He said, “Since Khayri was killed nothing much has been done about knives... It’s bloody awful; it’s every day.” He attributed part of the problem to substance misuse among young people, suggesting a need for an increased police presence.
Another resident shared his experiences with past criminal activity, including being burgled and having a car stolen, although this was some time ago. He also mentioned ongoing issues with neighbours and their dog, which caused significant disturbance.
These diverse perspectives highlight the complexities of life in Fartown, where the realities of crime, community dynamics, and personal experience intersect, shaping the lives and views of those who reside there.
Source: Noah Wire Services