The simple answer is yes, public order offences are increasing in Porthmadog. Data reveals a concerning trend for this area within Gwynedd. Porthmadog, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 1707, currently has a crime rate of 110.7 per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000.
The area’s safety score is also a point of concern, standing at 75 out of 100, which falls below the UK average of 79. A lower safety score suggests residents may feel less secure. However, the most significant factor is the year-on-year (YoY) increase in public order offences, which stands at a substantial 28.6%. This indicates a recent and accelerating rise in these types of crimes.
Public order offences encompass a range of disruptive and potentially harmful behaviours, including things like disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and affray. While the specific nature of these offences isn't detailed in the data, the significant increase suggests a potential deterioration in the area’s overall safety and community wellbeing. It's important to understand that crime rates are influenced by a complex array of factors, including socioeconomic conditions, population density, and police resource allocation. Further investigation beyond this data would be needed to pinpoint the precise causes behind this upward trend in Porthmadog.
It's also worth noting that a higher crime rate doesn't necessarily mean Porthmadog is inherently dangerous. The UK average provides a benchmark, and the 28.6% increase is the most worrying aspect. The safety score of 75 suggests a reasonable level of safety compared to other areas, but the rising crime rate warrants attention and proactive measures.