The retail crime landscape in Mountain Ash, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Rhondda Cynon Taf, presents a picture of relative stability, though it's important to understand the context. Currently, the crime rate in Mountain Ash stands at 93.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is slightly above the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000. The population of Mountain Ash is 11,654, meaning this crime rate represents a considerable number of incidents within the area.
Crucially, the trend in retail crime for Mountain Ash has been described as 'stable' over the past year. This indicates that the rate of incidents hasn’t significantly increased or decreased. However, it’s worth noting a 4.2% year-on-year change, which, while small, still represents a fluctuation in the number of reported crimes. It's important to remember that 'stable' doesn't mean 'zero crime'; it signifies a lack of dramatic shifts.
Furthermore, Mountain Ash's safety score is 76 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 79. A lower safety score suggests residents may feel less safe compared to the national average. While the safety score is a subjective measure, it can be indicative of perceptions of crime and security within the community.
It is vital for retailers and businesses in Mountain Ash to remain aware of their surroundings and implement appropriate security measures. These might include CCTV surveillance, improved lighting, and staff training to identify and respond to potential threats. Reporting any incidents to the police promptly is also essential to ensure accurate data collection and effective crime prevention strategies. Understanding that the crime rate is slightly above the national average, even with a stable trend, highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive security measures within the retail sector of Mountain Ash.