Yes, there is a noticeable and concerning trend of increasing criminal damage incidents in Loxwood, a built-up area (BUA) within the Chichester district. The data reveals that criminal damage is rising significantly. Specifically, incidents have increased by 38.5% year-on-year.
To provide context, Loxwood has a population of 1996. While the overall crime rate in Loxwood is 54.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, this is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, despite the increase in criminal damage, Loxwood generally maintains a lower level of overall crime compared to the national picture. However, the upward trend in criminal damage is something residents should be aware of.
It’s important to understand what 'criminal damage' encompasses. It can include a wide range of actions, from minor vandalism like graffiti to more serious acts of arson or destruction of property. The rise of 38.5% indicates a substantial escalation in these types of incidents within the area.
Despite the concerning trend, Loxwood boasts a safety score of 89 out of 100, which is considerably higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that, beyond the criminal damage incidents, Loxwood is perceived as a relatively safe place to live. However, the increasing trend in criminal damage requires attention and proactive measures. Further investigation into the specific types of criminal damage occurring would be beneficial to understanding the root causes and implementing targeted prevention strategies. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour to the police and participate in community safety initiatives.