Understanding the crime landscape of Peterborough is essential for residents, businesses, and policymakers to foster a safer community. This analysis delves into various crime types affecting the city, supported by official statistics and visual aids to provide a comprehensive overview.
Overview of Crime in Peterborough
Peterborough, a unitary authority in Cambridgeshire, has experienced fluctuations in crime rates over the years. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the city has faced challenges in areas such as violent crime, theft, and anti-social behaviour.
Explore local statistics – ONS
Crime Statistics Breakdown
The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough State of the Region 2024 report highlights that violence against persons and theft offenses account for most crimes, with Peterborough reporting the highest overall crime rates in the region. Cambridgeshire Insight
The Cambridgeshire Insight platform provides detailed crime data, including the number of crimes, rates per 1,000 population, and comparisons with other areas. Cambridgeshire Insight
In Peterborough, crime rates vary significantly across different wards. According to data from December 2023 to November 2024, the Central ward experiences the highest crime rate, with 408 incidents per 1,000 residents. Crystal Roof

Following Central ward, the North and East wards also report elevated crime rates, with 165 and 159 incidents per 1,000 residents, respectively. Crystal Roof
Conversely, areas such as Barnack and Wittering have notably lower crime rates, recording 38.2 and 49.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, respectively. Crystal Roof
These statistics highlight the disparities in crime distribution within Peterborough, emphasizing the need for targeted community safety initiatives in higher-risk areas.
Reoffending Rates
The proportion of offenders who reoffend in Peterborough is notable. Data indicates that 30.5% of offenders in the city go on to commit further crimes, which is higher than the national average of 27.9%.
Crime Prevention and Community Safety
Efforts to reduce crime in Peterborough involve collaboration between law enforcement agencies, local authorities, and community groups. Initiatives focus on:
- Community Engagement: Building trust between residents and police to encourage the reporting of crimes and suspicious activities.
- Youth Programs: Implementing programs aimed at diverting young people from criminal activities through education and recreational opportunities.
- Environmental Design: Enhancing urban planning and design to reduce opportunities for crime, such as improved street lighting and the maintenance of public spaces.
Conclusion
While Peterborough faces challenges in certain crime categories, ongoing efforts by the community and authorities aim to create a safer environment for all. Staying informed and engaged is crucial for residents to contribute to these initiatives effectively.
The website, police.uk has a useful guide on how you can protect your home from burglary.
For more detailed and up-to-date crime statistics, please refer to the Cambridgeshire Insight Crime and Community Safety reports.
Duke Security offers a free, no-obligation security assessment to residents in Peterborough. To arrange yours, contact us today.