Eccles (Tonbridge and Malling) Crime Rate

Crime in Eccles (Tonbridge and Malling)

Eccles is a relatively safe urban settlement with a safety score of 82/100, which is higher than the UK average of 79/100. The area's overall crime rate is 68.0 per 1,000 people, significantly lower than the national average of 91.6. However, the crime trend is currently increasing, with a 19.2% rise over the last year. While this increase warrants attention, the total volume of crime remains low compared to larger urban centres. The property crime rate is particularly low at 14.4 per 1,000, suggesting that Eccles remains a secure environment for residents, with a strong emphasis on community safety.

Crime Breakdown in Eccles (Tonbridge and Malling)

In the urban settlement of Eccles, violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type, accounting for 58 incidents and nearly half of all recorded activity (49.1%). Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue, with 23 reports (19.5%), followed by vehicle crime, which saw 13 incidents (11.0%). These three categories represent the majority of local concerns.

Property crime in Eccles, which includes burglary, theft, and vehicle-related offences, stands at a rate of 14.4 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 32.2. Vehicle crime is the most prominent property offence in the area, while burglary and bicycle theft are notably rare. For residents, this suggests that the primary property risk is related to vehicles parked on streets or in driveways, rather than home break-ins, which appear to be very infrequent in this community.

Crime Trends in Eccles

Eccles has experienced a notable 19.2% increase in crime over the past year. This trend indicates a shift in the local safety profile, although it is important to note that the total number of incidents remains relatively low.

The monthly data for 2025 shows a somewhat erratic pattern. The year began with a rate of 8.1 in January, which dropped to 4.6 in February before rising again. The highest peak occurred in May, reaching 10.4 per 1,000 residents, followed by another significant spike in July at 9.2. The latter half of the year saw more moderate levels, with September recording the lowest rate of 2.9. These fluctuations suggest that crime in Eccles may be driven by specific, short-term incidents rather than a steady, systemic increase. For residents, this means that while the area is still safe, being extra vigilant during the spring and summer months may be beneficial.

How To Keep Safe in Eccles

The highest crime category in Eccles is violence and sexual offences, followed by anti-social behaviour. While the area is generally quiet, maintaining awareness is key to personal safety.

To stay safe in Eccles:

• Be vigilant when walking alone during the evening, particularly in less-populated areas of the settlement.
• Given that vehicle crime is the top property offence, always park in well-lit areas and ensure no valuables are left on display.
• Engage with local community watch groups to stay informed about any recent anti-social behaviour trends.
• Ensure your home's exterior is well-maintained and lit; this discourages loitering and potential anti-social activity.
• Report any suspicious vehicle activity to the police, as vehicle-related offences are a notable part of the local crime profile.

Crime Timing in Eccles

Crime in Eccles follows distinct patterns throughout the day. The afternoon and evening periods see the highest overall volume of incidents, often related to anti-social behaviour and public order. However, the night-time period (12am - 6am) is particularly significant for property crime. A striking 74% of crimes committed during these early morning hours are vehicle-related. This suggests that while the streets are quiet, vehicles parked outside properties are at their most vulnerable. Conversely, the morning hours (6am - 12pm) see a more even split between vehicle crime and other general offences. Interestingly, burglary is not a factor in any time period according to current data, reinforcing Eccles' status as a very safe residential environment for homes.

Nearby Area Comparison

When comparing Eccles to its immediate neighbours, it shows a higher level of recorded activity than Burham, Aylesford, Kit's Coty, and Forstal, all of which reported nominal rates of 0.0 per 1,000 in this dataset. However, Eccles' rate of 68.0 is still very respectable and remains well below the UK average. It serves as a small urban hub within a very quiet rural and semi-rural landscape. For those looking at the region, Eccles offers a balanced profile of community life with a safety record that compares favourably to the wider Kent area.

Professional Security in Eccles

With vehicle crime being the most prevalent property-related offence in Eccles (11.0% of all crime), residents should consider the limitations of traditional security. Standard CCTV cameras often only provide a recording of a theft after it has occurred, which rarely helps in the recovery of a vehicle or the prevention of the act.

A proactive AI-powered system like scOS offers a more robust solution. scOS monitors your property boundaries and can specifically identify and verify vehicles using DVLA data. For Eccles homeowners, this means the system can recognise your own cars and alert you instantly to any unauthorised vehicle or person approaching your driveway. By using autonomous responses such as deterrent lighting or audio warnings, scOS can stop a criminal before they even touch your vehicle. In an area where burglary is non-existent but vehicle crime is a factor, focusing on perimeter and driveway protection with intelligent AI is the most effective way to maintain the security of your property.