Maesteg Crime Rate

Maesteg's crime profile reveals a stark contrast to national trends, with shoplifting rates 74% above the UK average. While the area's overall crime rate of 102.2 per 1,000 is 12% higher than the UK benchmark, property crime remains slightly elevated. Notably, vehicle crime has surged by 77.6% YoY, a sharp increase that demands closer examination. These patterns highlight the need for tailored safety strategies in this built-up area.

Maesteg is a built-up area within Bridgend, characterised by a mix of residential neighbourhoods and commercial hubs. As a commuter town with retail centres, it experiences elevated shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. Its proximity to major transport routes may contribute to vehicle crime, while the presence of local amenities could drive public order incidents. Socioeconomic factors, such as a younger population and fluctuating employment rates, likely influence the area's crime profile.

The most surprising finding is that shoplifting in Maesteg is 74% above the UK average, far exceeding other categories. This is likely driven by the area's retail centres, which attract both residents and visitors, creating opportunities for theft. Anti-social behaviour is also 16% above the UK average, possibly linked to the concentration of younger populations in certain neighbourhoods. Violence and sexual offences, though 13% above the UK average, may be influenced by the area's social dynamics and public spaces. Notably, other theft is 50% below the UK average, suggesting effective local deterrents or lower demand for such crimes.

Crime in Maesteg has increased by 11.0% year-on-year, with vehicle crime surging by 77.6% — the most dramatic rise. This spike may be linked to increased traffic or vulnerabilities in parking areas. While shoplifting has risen by 23.0% YoY, anti-social behaviour has also increased by 12.3%, suggesting growing social challenges. Conversely, other theft and burglary have fallen by 19.7% and 17.5%, respectively, indicating some progress in reducing these categories. The overall trend underscores the need for targeted interventions to address rising vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour.

How To Keep Safe in Maesteg

Residents should secure vehicles with alarms and avoid leaving valuables in sight, given the 77.6% YoY rise in vehicle crime. In retail areas, use well-lit routes and report shoplifting promptly, as this crime is 74% above the UK average. For anti-social behaviour, which is 16% above the UK average, avoid isolated areas after dark and engage with local community initiatives. Installing motion-sensor lighting can also deter opportunistic offenders.

Crime in Maesteg follows distinct patterns throughout the day and week. Theft peaks in the afternoon, likely tied to shopping hours in local retail areas. Vehicle crime spikes at night, aligning with reduced visibility and potential parking vulnerabilities. Other crime is most common during the night, possibly linked to isolated incidents or unmonitored spaces. Weekends, particularly Fridays and Saturdays, show elevated activity, with nightlife contributing to late-night vehicle and other crime. Sundays are quieter, reflecting lower commercial and social activity.

Compared to nearby areas, Maesteg has a notably higher crime rate than Pont Rhyd-y-cyff (89% higher) and Bryn (Neath Port Talbot) (242% higher). Croeserw, however, has a slightly higher rate (4% above Maesteg). These differences may reflect Bryn's rural character and lower population density, while Croeserw's proximity to urban centres could explain its elevated crime levels.

For Maesteg residents, proactive home security is essential. Given the rising vehicle crime rate (+77.6% YoY), scOS's DVLA vehicle registration verification can flag suspicious vehicles near properties. Its multi-camera monitoring and boundary detection features also help deter anti-social behaviour and shoplifting in high-risk areas. By learning household patterns, scOS minimises false alarms while providing real-time alerts. These features are particularly valuable in areas with elevated theft and public order incidents.