Porton, a built-up area in Wiltshire, demonstrates a compelling relationship between its rural location and its crime statistics. The simple answer is that Porton's isolation and the characteristics of rural communities significantly contribute to its remarkably low crime rate. Compared to the UK average of 91.6 crimes per 1,000 people, Porton registers a rate of just 16.4 per 1,000 residents. This is a striking difference and highlights the influence of its environment.
Several factors associated with rural locations typically lead to lower crime rates. These include lower population density, a greater sense of community and social cohesion, and often, a slower pace of life. Porton, with a population of 1527, benefits from these characteristics. The close-knit nature of rural communities often fosters a greater level of informal social control, where residents are more likely to look out for one another and report suspicious behaviour. This heightened vigilance acts as a deterrent to potential offenders.
Furthermore, the limited opportunities for crime, such as fewer potential targets for theft or burglary, also play a role. While this doesn’t eliminate crime entirely, it reduces the likelihood of incidents. The safety score of 96/100 further reinforces Porton's reputation as a safe place to live. This score, compared to a UK average of 79, indicates a significantly lower perceived risk of crime amongst residents.
It’s important to note that while Porton's crime rate is exceptionally low, it's not zero. However, the factors inherent in its rural setting – its isolation, community spirit, and limited opportunities – combine to create an environment where crime is significantly less prevalent than in more urban areas. This data represents the situation as it stands and should be considered in conjunction with other local information.