Richmond Council has refuted a recent study that showed residents in the SW14 postcode are the most likely to be burgled in the capital.
The research from money Supermarket examined 2 million insurance claims nationally.
It found that the SW14 postcode in Richmond — covering Mortlake and East Sheen — was the 10th-most burgled postcode nationally, with residents facing a 4.5% risk of being burgled.
In response to the findings, a Richmond Council Spokesperson said: “In reality Richmond upon Thames does not have a high home burglary rate in comparison with other London boroughs or indeed the rest of the country.
“From January 2012 until December 2017 there were 10,369 reports of burglary across the borough in residential and business properties.
“Compared to other boroughs during the same period, Barnet had 23,556 reports, Croydon 19,377 and Lambeth had 19,127.”
Mortlake, in Richmond, recorded 45.7 claims for every 1,000 residences, making it the biggest target for criminals in the capital.
However, a strategy plan, published last month, by the Richmond Community Safety Partnership stated that burglary offences rose from 14% in 2016 to 2017, reflecting a growing concern in the area.
The Richmond Community Safety Partnership includes Richmond Council, the Metropolitan Police, probation services, London Fire Brigade, the Richmond Clinical Commission Group, schools and voluntary groups.
Together, they’ve outlined a strategy to tackle crime which is of most concern to residents, such as burglary and motor vehicle theft.
Councillor Mark Boyle, Richmond Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety said: “Richmond upon Thames is one of the safest boroughs in the country.
“By working with our partners in the Police, Fire Brigade, CCG and the wider community we are working hard to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
“However, we know crime and community safety issues are continually evolving and becoming more complex.
“This comes at a time when other public sector organisations face continued financial pressures which will require us to work efficiently in partnership, to ensure we can deliver on our priorities.”
The steps the partnership plan to take to reduce the most concerning crimes, such as burglary, include having a minimum of two dedicated police constables and one police and community support officer in every ward in Richmond.
