Is Harlesden Safe? (Plus Other FAQS)

Harlesden is a suburb located in the northwest of London. It was once a small and rural part of the village of Willesden. It benefited from the industrial revolution and the arrival of the railway and thus became a much better and improved place.

In terms of safety, Harlesden, like any other neighborhood of London, has many violence and drug issues. In fact, the area was known to have a drug issue in the past.

However, over the course of time, the crime rates have decreased and are now lower than the average. 

Serval community forums along with the police help reduce and prevent crime in the area, making it a safer and more peaceful place for the residents. 

Some parts of Harlesden have grown in popularity in recent years but have escaped the gentrification and associated skyrocketing housing prices that have plagued much of the city.

Crime Statistics of Harlesden

Crime statistics from January 2023 show that there were 628 street-level crime incidents in Harlesden, which is higher than the average for London.

The largest category of crime in Harlesden is Violent Crime, followed by Anti-Social Behaviour.

Other significant categories include Robbery, Criminal Damage and Arson, and Vehicle Crime. The majority of these incidents are categorized as “no further action taken.”

These figures are concerning, and it is important for the authorities to take necessary measures to address the issue.

The Metropolitan Police Service has a crime data dashboard that provides detailed information on crime statistics in Harlesden and other areas in London.

The dashboard includes data on various types of crimes, such as burglary, theft, and drug-related offenses.

Residents of Harlesden can also access crime data on the police.uk website, which provides a crime map and statistics for the area.

The website allows users to search for crime incidents by type and time period, and view crime definitions to better understand the data.

It is worth noting that crime statistics do not always paint a complete picture of the safety of an area. Many factors can influence crime rates, such as population density, socio-economic factors, and police presence.

However, it is important for residents and visitors to be aware of the crime situation in Harlesden and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Factors Contributing to Crime Rate in Harlesden

Harlesden, a neighborhood in the London Borough of Brent, has consistently had a high crime rate in recent years. While there are several factors that contribute to this, some of the most significant ones are:

• Drug-related crimes: Harlesden has been known for its drug trade, particularly in the past. The area has been a hotspot for drug-related crimes such as possession, dealing, and trafficking. The easy availability of drugs in the area has led to a rise in associated crimes such as theft and violence.
• Socio-economic factors: Harlesden has a high poverty rate, with many residents living in social housing or struggling to make ends meet. The area has also seen a rise in unemployment in recent years. These socio-economic factors have been linked to a higher crime rate in the area.
• Gang activity: Gang activity has been a persistent issue in Harlesden, with several gangs operating in the area. Gang-related crimes such as violence, drug dealing, and intimidation have contributed to the high crime rate in the area.
• Lack of police presence: Some residents of Harlesden have complained about the lack of police presence in the area. This has led to a feeling of insecurity among residents and has made it easier for criminals to operate in the area.

While these factors are not unique to Harlesden, their combination has contributed to the high crime rate in the area. Efforts have been made by the police and local authorities to address these issues, but the high crime rate in Harlesden remains a concern for residents and visitors alike.

Efforts to Reduce Crime in Harlesden

Harlesden has been known for its high crime rate in the past, but in recent years, local authorities have made significant efforts to reduce crime in the area.

The Metropolitan Police and local agencies work actively with the community to prevent and reduce crime through various initiatives.

One such initiative is the Safer Transport Team, which works to improve the safety and security of public transportation in Harlesden.

This team works closely with local bus and train operators to ensure that passengers feel safe while using public transport. They also work to identify and address any issues related to crime and anti-social behavior on public transport.

Another initiative is the Safer Neighbourhood Team, which is made up of police officers and police community support officers.

This team works closely with local residents and businesses to identify and address any issues related to crime and anti-social behavior in the area. They also work to build relationships with the community and encourage residents to report any suspicious activity.

In addition to these initiatives, local agencies also hold various community forums and events to raise awareness about crime prevention and safety.

These events provide an opportunity for residents to learn about crime prevention strategies and to ask questions or voice concerns to local authorities.

Overall, the efforts to reduce crime in Harlesden have been successful in recent years, with crime rates declining locally and being lower than average in the Borough of Brent.

While there is still work to be done, the community and local authorities are committed to making Harlesden a safer place to live and work.

How Dangerous Is Harlesden?

Harlesden, like any other London neighborhood, has many violence and drug issues. In fact, it had big drug problems in the past. However, crime rates have declined over time and are presently lower than the average.

It is still populated by many drug traffickers, burglars, thugs, uncultured, uncivilized people, and gangsters. Many shady businesses and activities still take place, like in any other part of London. You’re safe here if you don’t get involved in such activities and keep an eye out for yourself. It is your responsibility to take care of yourself and your belongings and make sure you don’t go to backward areas.  

Many people claim it’s a dangerous place to live in, but the majority of them have never visited Harlesden. Most people’s opinions are not based on their experience. The area is quite diversified as many distinct communities reside within this area, attractive, and affordable where you can live for a limited amount of money.

There are many people who live in this area and despite Harlesden’s negative image, they claim that it’s a fantastic area to live in. The community is vibrant, roads are clean, neighbors look out for each other, and there are many elite cafes, eateries, shopping malls, and sources of entertainment for everyone. 

What Is Harlesden Known For?

Harlesden has improved so much over the course of time, and now it offers artistic views, great Victorian terraces, affordable houses, and much more. 

Harlesden is tremendously lively, despite being associated with many street, gun, and drug crimes. Many parts of it are plagued with poverty. Such areas are backward and not appropriate to raise your families.

On the other hand, there are areas where people look out for each other, and there is an increased level of security. 

These areas are advanced and are currently crisscrossed by railway lines. The improved railway lines and great transportation links make this area unique on its own. 

There are also a number of shops, salons, barbers, grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping malls along the High Street. It is also famous for its diversity. 

In terms of housing societies, Harlesden contains many streets with attractive Victorian-style houses that are not only beautiful but also quite affordable. Moreover, the rent is low, which is why many bachelors, and struggling young professionals prefer living here.

The educational institutes are highly advanced and elite in this area. There are also many sources of entertainment for people, such as green parks, amusement parks, shopping malls, restaurants, including Caribbean restaurants, and a theater that doesn’t just play movies but also displays live performances for everyone to enjoy.

Furthermore, there are also many golf clubs in the area, and sports enthusiasts enjoy many sports events that take place throughout the year. 

One of the best things about Harlesden is that, as it is a diverse area of London, it welcomes people from all kinds of religions. You can visit Hindu temples and churches all year. You might spend hours admiring the beauty of these sacred places.

Is Harlesden Gentrified?

Gentrification is actually a type of urban development in which an area or a city converts from a low-value area to a high-value area in a short span of time.  

Harlesden seems like an urban rather than a suburban area, which adds to its appeal. The roads, as well as the housing societies, are advanced. The roads, particularly, are straightforward and clean. 

It hasn’t quite reached the whole level of gentrification, but it appears that it will achieve that level. The residences in this area are modern and elite, worth millions of pounds.

All things considered, Harlesden, like any other London borough, is plagued by crime and drug abuse. In fact, it has a history of serious drug issues. Crime rates, on the other hand, have decreased with time and are now lower than the average.

Many people say Harlesden is a dangerous place to live, yet the vast majority of them have never been there. The majority of people’s viewpoints are not founded on personal experience. The location is highly diverse since it is home to many different towns. It is also lovely and economical, allowing you to live on a budget.

These are developed areas that are now crisscrossed by railway lines. This location stands out due to its enhanced railway lines and excellent transportation connections.

Along the High Street, there are also a variety of businesses, salons, barbers, grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shopping malls. It’s also known for its cultural diversity. 

Harlesden is quiet, and the houses are reasonably priced. Homebuyers are drawn to this area. Some areas of Harlesden have become more popular in recent years, although they have evaded the gentrification and increasing home costs that have afflicted the rest of the city.

In short, many people who reside in Harlesden say, despite Harlesden’s bad reputation, that it is a wonderful place to live in. It is vibrant, the roads are clean, neighbors watch out for one another, and there are numerous high-end cafes, diners, shopping centers, and entertainment options for everyone.