The question of how Cold Ash's crime rate compares to the UK average is a pertinent one for potential residents and those already living in the area. The data reveals a striking difference. Cold Ash, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in West Berkshire with a population of 11,400, has a crime rate of 10.6 incidents per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, which stands at 91.6 incidents per 1,000 people.
To put this into perspective, the difference is substantial – Cold Ash experiences approximately one-eighth the level of crime seen across the country as a whole. This contributes to Cold Ash’s impressive safety score of 98 out of 100, far exceeding the UK average of 79. It's important to note that crime rate statistics are calculated per 1,000 residents to allow for meaningful comparisons between areas of differing population sizes.
Looking at nearby areas provides further context. Ashmore Green and Curridge both report a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000, indicating exceptionally low levels of recorded crime. Hermitage reports a crime rate of 31.7 per 1,000, while Upper Bucklebury has a rate of 52.6 per 1,000. These figures, while higher than Cold Ash’s, still demonstrate a degree of variability in crime rates within the surrounding region.
It is vital to remember that crime statistics are based on reported incidents and may not reflect the full picture of safety and security within a community. They provide a valuable indicator but should be considered alongside other factors such as community initiatives, policing presence, and local perceptions of safety. While Cold Ash demonstrates a low crime rate, vigilance and adherence to standard safety practices remain important.