Melksham’s crime rate is comparatively low when viewed in relation to both the wider Wiltshire area and the United Kingdom as a whole. Based on available data, Melksham, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 18,403, has a crime rate of 67.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 people.
To put this into perspective, let's examine neighbouring areas. Bowerhill has a crime rate of 28.9 per 1,000, Beanacre, Berryfield, and Shaw (Wiltshire) all report a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000. This stark contrast highlights Melksham’s relative safety within its immediate surroundings. While Beanacre, Berryfield, and Shaw demonstrate exceptionally low crime rates, it’s important to note that these might be smaller areas with differing demographics and reporting practices.
Beyond the raw crime rate, Melksham’s safety score further reinforces this positive assessment. The area boasts a safety score of 84 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. A higher safety score suggests a perception of safety among residents and a lower likelihood of experiencing crime. It’s important to remember that safety scores are often subjective and based on resident perceptions, but they provide another valuable data point.
It’s crucial to understand that crime statistics can be influenced by various factors, including population density, socioeconomic conditions, and reporting practices. However, the data clearly indicates that Melksham currently presents a safer environment than many other areas in the UK. Continued monitoring of crime trends and proactive community engagement remain vital to sustaining this favourable situation.