The primary concerns regarding anti-social behaviour in Ashtead, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Mole Valley, stem from the broader anxieties surrounding community safety, despite the area exhibiting a comparatively strong safety score. Ashtead’s population is 14,966, and the crime rate stands at 38.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, suggesting a generally safer environment. However, 'anti-social behaviour' encompasses a range of actions beyond recorded crimes, often causing distress and impacting the quality of life for residents.
While the overall safety score for Ashtead is a respectable 91 out of 100, which is higher than the UK average of 79, it's crucial to understand that this score doesn't necessarily reflect the prevalence or impact of anti-social behaviour specifically. It’s a broader measure of perceived safety. Concerns often include noise disturbances, vandalism, public intoxication, and loitering. These behaviours, while not always resulting in formal criminal charges, can erode the sense of community and safety.
The lower crime rate in Ashtead, compared to the UK average, is a positive indicator. It suggests that serious crimes are less frequent. However, it’s important to remember that anti-social behaviour can be a precursor to more serious offences if left unaddressed. The perception of safety within a community is heavily influenced by these less severe, but persistent, issues. Local authorities and community groups are actively working to address these concerns through increased patrols, community engagement programs, and initiatives aimed at providing positive activities for young people. Reporting instances of anti-social behaviour to the appropriate authorities is crucial in allowing them to effectively monitor trends and allocate resources where they are most needed. It’s important to note that the data reflects incidents recorded up to the present time and is subject to change.