Urban decay

Figures on urban decay are based on the State Safety Monitor 2007, a survey conducted by Statistics Netherlands, the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations and the Ministry of Justice.
The survey was held among the population aged 15 years and older (excluding people living in homes and institutions) from January to mid-March 2007. The figures are based on a sample survey and are therefore subject to a margin of error.

From the Safety Monitor:
‘I mention various annoying incidents and crimes, which might occur in your neighbourhood. I would like to know whether, in your opinion, these crimes and incidents occur commonly, sometimes, rarely or hardly ever.’
Subsequently, various items are mentioned. The items referring to decay of the neighbourhood are formulated as follows:

• Graffiti on walls and/or buildings
• Street litter
• Dog droppings on the pavements
• Vandalised telephone booths, bus and tram shelters

Items are only labelled as ‘annoying’, if respondents indicate they occur ‘frequently’.