Does fear of crime deter residents, workers and visitors from using their local shopping area?
Addressing crime concerns of residents, workers and visitors in the borough is key to creating an environment where consumers feel safe to shop, as well as to the success and growth local businesses can achieve. The task is challenging and begins with the problem of public perception of crime. Out of over a thousand Croydon residents recently consulted by ORC International, 42% stated that fear of crime or anti-social behaviour affected their decision whether or not to use their local shopping area. Given that nearly half of local residents feel unsafe or intimidated during their shopping trips due to the fear of mugging or “groups of people hanging around”, the importance of counteractive measures and good communication between local authorities and the public becomes apparent. The survey findings suggested that greater awareness of the police’s actions to tackle public safety problems would help instil higher confidence amongst residents. Indeed, the demand for increased police activ
