With a strong relationship in place with the local rural crime team at West Mercia Police, Sansaw Estate is focused on reducing rural crime, helping to create a safer environment for those both working and living within the countryside.
Rural crime has become an increasing concern for landed estates and farming businesses across the countryside, with many landowners now facing crime issues that were once considered uncommon in remote areas. Fly-tipping continues to place a significant burden on rural estates, with gateways, woodland tracks and quiet country lanes frequently used as dumping grounds for household rubbish, building waste and hazardous materials. Aside from the obvious environmental impact, the cost of clearing waste falls directly onto the landowner, often running into thousands of pounds each year. Beyond the financial strain, it creates frustration amongst rural communities who already work hard to maintain and protect the countryside.
Thefts of machinery, tools and farm equipment have become increasingly organised and targeted. Modern agricultural machinery with valuable GPS technology and specialist components can be removed and sold quickly, while trailers, quad bikes and power tools remain attractive targets for criminal gangs. The timing of these thefts can affect busy periods, where the loss of a single machine can disrupt operations across the entire farm and estate. Many rural businesses now operate with the same level of security awareness as industrial premises, despite often being located in isolated remote locations.
As a result, estates are investing heavily in security measures to protect their businesses and livelihoods. Trail cameras and 24 hr CCTV systems are an increasingly common installation across farms, yards and access points. This allows for round the clock monitoring of suspicious activity and provides valuable evidence when incidents occur. Alarm systems are now routinely fitted to workshops, fuel tanks and machinery stores, while vehicle trackers and immobilisers have become essential additions to tractors, utility vehicles and trailers. This level of security is now a necessary investment in safeguarding rural businesses, protecting staff and deterring the growing threat of organised rural crime.
With a strong relationship in place with the local rural crime team at West Mercia Police, Sansaw Estate is focused on reducing rural crime and has implemented new security measures to help create a safer environment for those working and living within the countryside.
