The impact of anti-social behaviour on the quality of life in Colne, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Pendle, is a significant concern. The overall crime rate in Colne stands at 144.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably higher than the United Kingdom average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a heightened level of criminal activity and potential anti-social behaviour within the area.
Anti-social behaviour, encompassing actions like vandalism, noise disturbances, public intoxication, and minor theft, can erode a community’s sense of safety and well-being. While the exact nature of anti-social behaviour incidents isn’t specified in the available data, the elevated crime rate strongly implies its presence. A higher crime rate often correlates with increased instances of anti-social behaviour, as it can create an environment where such actions are perceived as more acceptable or less likely to be penalised.
Further illustrating the concern, Colne's safety score is 68 out of 100. This score is substantially lower than the UK average of 79, indicating that residents perceive Colne as less safe than the average UK town. This lower safety score is likely influenced by the higher crime rate and the potential prevalence of anti-social behaviour. The population of Colne is 19,528, meaning a relatively large number of residents are potentially affected by these issues.
The cumulative effect of this heightened crime rate and lower safety score can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and a diminished sense of community. Residents may feel less comfortable walking alone at night, allowing children to play outdoors unsupervised, or participating in community events. This, in turn, can impact social cohesion and overall quality of life. Addressing anti-social behaviour requires a multifaceted approach, involving increased police presence, community engagement, and preventative measures targeting the root causes of such behaviour.