The question of whether property crime rates are increasing or decreasing in Southwick (Wiltshire) is a valid one, and the answer, based on available data, is that they are increasing. Southwick, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 2472, currently has a crime rate of 59.5 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting Southwick generally remains a relatively safe area. However, the focus here is on property crime.
Specifically, the property crime rate in Southwick stands at 16.6 per 1,000 residents. While this figure alone doesn't paint a complete picture, the crucial detail is the trend. Data indicates a concerning increase of 14.8% year-on-year (YoY). This signifies a substantial rise in property-related offences within the past year.
It's important to contextualize these figures. Southwick’s safety score is 85/100, which is higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that, comparatively, Southwick is perceived as a safer place to live. However, the rising property crime rate warrants attention and proactive measures. Understanding the specific types of property crimes involved (e.g., burglary, theft, vandalism) would provide further insight, but that level of detail is not provided in the data.
The increase in property crime, while concerning, doesn’t necessarily indicate a breakdown in community safety. It could be attributable to a variety of factors, such as changes in local demographics, economic conditions, or even reporting practices. Regardless of the cause, the upward trend necessitates vigilance and preventative action from residents and local authorities.