The question of whether specific areas within Ashington are experiencing higher rates of shoplifting is a valid concern. Data for the Built-up Area (BUA) of Ashington in Northumberland provides some insight. With a population of 28,295, Ashington currently has a crime rate of 152.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000.
While the data doesn’t pinpoint specific locations within Ashington experiencing disproportionately high shoplifting rates, the overall crime rate suggests a higher prevalence of such incidents compared to the national average. It’s important to note that the data doesn't break down crime types by precise geographic areas within Ashington; it represents the entire BUA. A safety score of 65/100 further reinforces this perception, falling below the UK average of 79. A lower safety score indicates residents may feel less safe.
Crucially, the data indicates a positive trend: a decrease of 10.6% in crime year-on-year. This suggests that efforts to address crime, including shoplifting, are showing some positive results. However, the elevated crime rate compared to the national average highlights the need for continued vigilance and targeted interventions.
Without more granular data, it's impossible to identify specific hotspots within Ashington. Local police and community groups likely possess more detailed information about areas experiencing higher shoplifting incidents. Residents and business owners are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the police and participate in community safety initiatives to help further reduce crime rates and improve the safety score.