THE Gazette can today reveal the Fylde coast’s car crime hotspots.
The figures – released by Lancashire Police after a Freedom of Information request - show a total 544 vehicle thefts or break-ins in the force’s Western Division – which covers Blackpool and Fylde – have been recorded in the area over the last six months.
Layton and Park, covering the Grange Park estate, wards received the dubious ward of topping the table, with 47 vehicles break-ins reported over the period.
Layton councillor Martin Mitchell, of Blackpool Council, said: “It’s very disappointing and we think it’s only a few people are committing these crimes but unfortunately it only takes two or three people to disproportionately affect these results.
“Layton in general is a very peaceful and friendly area so it is a shock and slightly out of character for the area.”
Brian Doherty represents Park ward, which covers the Grange Park estate, and said social problems created issues.
He said: “All we can do is work with the police, I didn’t think the offences in Grange Park were as bad as that.
“We’re just trying to minimise the damage but a lot of it’s down to poverty and unemployment.
“It’s a difficult problem but it’s not just Grange Park and it’s not just Blackpool, it’s countrywide.
“We need to get some training in place for youngsters and something positive for them to look forward to and keep them of the streets.”
A Blackpool Police spokesman said the pubic were vital in helping track down the thieves but also in ensuring their property was secure.
He added: “Car crime remains low but we are determined to keep it that way and further reduce the number of these crimes by targeting offenders, but we also need the public’s help.
“Our policing teams regularly carry out high visibility patrols in and around areas where there have been problems in order to help deter thieves and reassure residents.”
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