Blackpool Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Blackpool BUA

Within the Built-Up Area (BUA) of Blackpool, the overall crime rate stands at 210.2 per 1,000 residents, which is considerably higher than the national average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000 people. This positions Blackpool BUA with a safety score of 52 out of 100, falling below the UK average safety score of 78/100. The property crime rate within this BUA is 51.3 per 1,000 residents, also exceeding the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. Over the past year, the crime trend in Blackpool BUA has remained stable, demonstrating a slight 1.0% increase year-over-year. This introduction provides a foundational understanding of the crime landscape within Blackpool BUA, paving the way for a more detailed analysis of specific crime categories and their temporal distributions.

Crime Breakdown in Blackpool BUA

An examination of crime types within Blackpool BUA highlights the most significant categories impacting the community. Violence and sexual offences represent the largest proportion, accounting for 36.4% of all crimes, with a rate of 76.6 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common, making up 28.7% of incidents at 60.4 per 1,000 people. Criminal damage and arson rank third, at 6.3% of the total crimes with a rate of 13.2 per 1,000. These three categories indicate the primary challenges in the area.

Property-related crime in Blackpool BUA, which directly affects homes and businesses, registered an overall rate of 51.3 per 1,000 residents. This figure consolidates various offences, including burglary (5.8 per 1,000), other theft (11.3 per 1,000), shoplifting (10.3 per 1,000), vehicle crime (6.5 per 1,000), robbery (0.8 per 1,000), theft from the person (0.7 per 1,000), bicycle theft (0.5 per 1,000), and criminal damage and arson (13.2 per 1,000). The elevated property crime rate underscores the importance for residents and property owners to implement robust security measures to protect their assets.

Crime Trends in Blackpool BUA

The overall crime trend in Blackpool BUA has demonstrated a stable pattern over the last year, with a minor year-over-year increase of 1.0%. This suggests a consistent level of crime activity without significant fluctuations. A closer look at the monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents reveals specific patterns within this stability. In late 2024, rates were 18.6 in October, decreasing to 16.3 in November and 15.7 in December. This downward trend continued into the early months of 2025, with rates of 15.3 in January and 15.1 in February.

However, a noticeable upturn began in March 2025, reaching 19.1 per 1,000, and remaining high through April (18.6), May (19.5), July (19.1), and August (19.3). The peak in May suggests a potential seasonal influence, perhaps linked to increased activity during warmer months. Rates slightly receded in June (18.0) before a more significant drop in September 2025 to 15.7. For residents, this stable overarching trend, punctuated by predictable monthly variations, highlights the value of being mindful of seasonal increases in crime activity for proactive security planning.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Blackpool BUA

Analysing the time patterns of crime in Blackpool BUA provides crucial insights into when different types of offences are most likely to occur. During the Morning (6am - 12pm), theft-related incidents are notably elevated, accounting for 47% of crimes in this period, alongside some burglary (10%) and vehicle crime (12%). This often correlates with commercial areas opening and properties being left unattended as residents commute.

The Afternoon (12pm - 6pm) sees theft continuing to dominate, reaching its peak at 50% of crimes, while burglary also remains significant at 16%. This period frequently aligns with busy shopping hours and increased foot traffic, providing more opportunities for opportunistic theft. As the day progresses into the Evening (6pm - 12am), the crime landscape shifts. While theft still accounts for 21%, a larger proportion falls under 'Other' crimes (52%), which can include public order offences and anti-social behaviour, alongside continued burglary (15%) and vehicle crime (12%).

Finally, the Night (12am - 6am) hours reveal a distinct pattern, with vehicle crime peaking at 33% and burglary reaching its highest proportion at 19%. Theft, however, drops to its lowest at 11%, while 'Other' crimes remain substantial at 37%. These overnight patterns often reflect reduced visibility and properties being unoccupied, making them more vulnerable to certain types of offences. Understanding these temporal trends can help residents and businesses implement targeted security measures.

Comparing Blackpool BUA with Nearby Areas

Understanding Blackpool BUA's crime rates benefits from a comparison with adjacent built-up areas. While Blackpool BUA's overall crime rate of 210.2 per 1,000 is significant, neighbouring areas like Staining, Weeton, and Carleton are typically smaller, often more rural or semi-rural settlements. These areas generally experience considerably lower crime rates due to their different demographic profiles, population densities, and economic activities. Lytham St Anne's, another nearby coastal town, might share some similarities with Blackpool in terms of visitor numbers, but its overall character often results in a different crime profile.

Such comparisons underscore that the urban environment, tourism, and population density within Blackpool BUA contribute to its distinct crime landscape. While these nearby areas offer a contrast, they collectively provide a regional context, helping residents and potential newcomers understand how Blackpool BUA's crime statistics compare within the immediate vicinity. This perspective is crucial for forming a comprehensive view of safety and security across the region.

Protecting Your Property in Blackpool BUA

With Blackpool BUA's property crime rate standing at 51.3 per 1,000 residents, robust home security is a crucial consideration for local property owners. Relying on traditional security such as basic CCTV often means you receive footage of a burglary after it has occurred, rather than preventing the incident itself. The focus of modern security has shifted towards proactive deterrence, stopping threats before they can escalate.

Advanced AI-powered home security operating systems, like scOS, exemplify this proactive approach. These systems detect potential threats at the boundary of your property, not once an intruder is already inside. By intelligently monitoring multiple cameras simultaneously, the system learns your property's routines and can accurately distinguish between genuine threats and everyday occurrences, minimising false alarms. When a real threat is identified, autonomous responses, such as activating lights and engaging speakers, can swiftly deter intruders by removing the element of surprise. This professional-grade deterrence is designed to make burglars, who typically make their decision within 60 seconds, move on to an easier target. Opting for a system that actively prevents crime, rather than merely records it, offers a more effective layer of protection for your property in Blackpool BUA.