The question of how the crime rate in Leighton Buzzard compares to Billington is a valid one for anyone considering living in or visiting Central Bedfordshire. The data reveals a stark contrast. Leighton Buzzard, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 42,466, has a crime rate of 69.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably higher than the crime rate observed in Billington, which stands at 0.0 per 1,000.
It’s important to understand that a higher crime rate doesn’t necessarily indicate a less safe area; it often correlates with population density and other factors. Leighton Buzzard's population size naturally contributes to a greater potential for reported crime. For comparison, nearby areas such as Heath and Reach, Soulbury, and Wing (Buckinghamshire) also record a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000 and 48.3 per 1,000 respectively. Wing's higher rate, while still lower than Leighton Buzzard's, demonstrates that population isn't the only influencing factor.
Further context is provided by Leighton Buzzard’s safety score, which is 84 out of 100. This is notably higher than the UK average of 79, suggesting that residents perceive the area as relatively safe despite the higher crime rate. The UK average crime rate is 91.6 per 1,000, further highlighting the difference between Leighton Buzzard and the national picture.
It's crucial to remember that crime rate statistics are just one piece of the puzzle. They don’t reflect the nature of the crimes committed or the effectiveness of local policing. Local council initiatives and community engagement also play a significant role in ensuring safety and security.