The impact of Atherstone’s designation as a market town on its crime statistics is complex and not directly causative. Atherstone, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) in North Warwickshire, has a population of 9026. Understanding the area's crime profile requires examining specific data points.
Currently, Atherstone's crime rate stands at 86.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is slightly below the United Kingdom's average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000. The area also receives a safety score of 79 out of 100, again, a score equal to the UK average. This suggests a generally perceived level of safety within the community.
It’s important to note that a market town’s characteristics – often involving increased footfall, commercial activity, and a mix of residents – could contribute to crime opportunities. However, the data for Atherstone does not explicitly link these factors to increased crime. The lower-than-average crime rate suggests that any potential risks associated with market town status are being effectively managed.
Furthermore, a safety score of 79/100 indicates that residents generally feel safe, despite the reported crime incidents. This score, matching the national average, suggests a balanced perception of safety within Atherstone. It's crucial to consider that crime statistics are influenced by numerous factors beyond the town’s market status, including socioeconomic conditions, policing strategies, and community initiatives. Further investigation would be needed to determine the specific drivers of crime within Atherstone and how they correlate to its market town status.