The impact of crime on local businesses in Kingstone, Herefordshire, is a complex issue to consider. Directly addressing the question, crime can affect businesses through direct losses (theft, vandalism), increased insurance premiums, reduced footfall, and a general climate of fear and insecurity. While Kingstone’s overall crime rate is comparatively lower than the national average, it’s still important to understand the situation.
Kingstone, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA), has a population of 1678. The crime rate in Kingstone currently stands at 70.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This suggests that, statistically, Kingstone experiences less crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom. However, it’s vital to remember that crime rates can fluctuate and that even a lower rate can still pose challenges for businesses.
Kingstone’s safety score is 81 out of 100, which is also above the UK average of 79. A higher safety score indicates a perceived level of safety within the area. This suggests that residents and, presumably, business owners, generally feel safe in Kingstone. However, perception can be influenced by factors beyond the raw crime statistics.
The potential impact on businesses isn't solely about the number of crimes; it’s about the type of crime. Even seemingly minor incidents like shoplifting or graffiti can create a negative perception and deter customers. Larger businesses might face disruption to operations, while smaller, independent retailers may feel particularly vulnerable. Increased insurance costs are a direct financial consequence of crime, impacting profitability. Furthermore, a heightened fear of crime can lead to decreased customer visits and reduced business revenue.
It's important to note that specific crime data beyond the overall rate is not provided, so a detailed assessment of the types of crime impacting businesses is not possible. However, proactively addressing security concerns and fostering a sense of community can mitigate potential negative impacts, even with a lower-than-average crime rate.