Paulton Crime Rate

Paulton’s crime rate of 56.6 per 1,000 residents, 37.9% below the UK average, highlights its relative safety despite a 34.9% year-on-year increase. The most striking trend is the surge in anti-social behaviour (+106.3% YoY) and vehicle crime (+107.1% YoY), which, while still below UK averages, demand closer attention. This data reveals a community that, though generally secure, faces evolving challenges in maintaining public order and protecting parked vehicles.

Paulton is a built-up area in Bath and North East Somerset, characterised by a mix of residential properties and small-scale retail. Its proximity to Bath and commuter infrastructure likely influences crime patterns, with anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime linked to local transport hubs and community interactions. The area’s moderate population density and economic profile may contribute to lower-than-average burglary rates, though rising anti-social behaviour suggests evolving social dynamics.

Paulton’s most surprising finding is the sharp rise in anti-social behaviour (+106.3% YoY), despite remaining 30% below the UK average. This may reflect increased social activity in public spaces or changes in community engagement. Vehicle crime, though still 4% below the UK average, has surged by 107.1% YoY, likely due to commuter parking areas or unsecured vehicles during peak hours. Property crime, at 14.5 per 1,000 (54.7% below UK average), is dominated by theft and burglary, which may be mitigated by Paulton’s lower population density and strong Neighbourhood Watch presence. Notably, shoplifting has fallen sharply (-46.2% YoY), possibly due to improved retail security measures.

Paulton’s crime rate increased by 34.9% year-on-year, with vehicle crime surging by 107.1% YoY. This sharp rise may be linked to seasonal factors, such as increased traffic during peak hours or changes in commuter patterns. Anti-social behaviour also rose sharply (+106.3% YoY), likely reflecting heightened social activity or disruptions in community cohesion. Despite these increases, Paulton remains significantly safer than the UK average, with property crime 54.7% below the national rate.

How To Keep Safe in Paulton

1. Secure vehicles: With vehicle crime up 107.1% YoY, always lock cars and avoid leaving valuables in sight. Use scOS’s DVLA verification for added protection.

2. Report anti-social behaviour promptly: The 106.3% YoY rise in anti-social behaviour suggests increased public disturbances. Use 101 to report incidents and engage with local Neighbourhood Watch groups.

3. Avoid isolated areas at night: Vehicle crime peaks between 21:00 and 05:00, so walk with a companion and use well-lit routes after dark.

Crime in Paulton peaks during late afternoon and evening, with vehicle crime concentrated overnight (21:00-05:00). Theft and burglary are more common in the afternoon (12:00-18:00), aligning with pedestrian and commercial activity. Nighttime sees a 57% spike in vehicle crime, likely due to reduced surveillance and isolated parking areas. Weekend patterns show higher anti-social behaviour in evenings, reflecting increased social gatherings, while Sunday mornings are notably quiet, with theft rates 10-20% lower than weekdays due to reduced foot traffic.

Compared to High Littleton (36.6 per 1,000) and Midsomer Norton (67.4 per 1,000), Paulton’s crime rate is 55% higher than High Littleton but 19% lower than Midsomer Norton. High Littleton’s lower rate may reflect a smaller population or fewer commercial hubs, while Midsomer Norton’s higher rate could stem from denser urban areas or different socioeconomic factors.

For Paulton’s rising vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour, scOS’s DVLA vehicle registration verification and multi-camera monitoring could help deter thieves and identify suspicious activity. Proactive boundary detection and autonomous deterrence features would also address burglary risks, particularly in areas with increasing anti-social behaviour. These technologies align with Paulton’s need to protect both residential and commuter spaces.