Class A drugs are being openly sold on the streets of Harwich, it has been claimed.
Police were told at a meeting that drugs such as heroin and cocaine were rife in the town - and had a knock-on effect on crime.
Residents spoke of their fears at a meeting of the Harwich Neighbourhood Crime Prevention Panel.
But they were reassured the issue was no worse in Harwich than anywhere else in the county.
Matthew Wix, of Tendring Council, said: "As landlord, if we have proof and somebody is convicted, the council will take action. It is not something that will be brushed under the carpet."
Insp Adrian Dearsley, of Harwich police, said: "If we have got actionable intelligence, we will deal with it. People come to these forums and say they have seen people snorting cocaine but they don't tell us."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article