The question of whether Earls Colne is safe to walk around at night is complex, and requires examining the available data. While the overall crime rate is comparatively low, the specific score regarding nighttime safety raises concerns.
Earls Colne, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Braintree, has a population of 3670. Its overall crime rate stands at 46.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the United Kingdom average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, generally, the area experiences less crime than the average UK location. The area also boasts a safety score of 87/100, again higher than the UK average of 79, reinforcing this perception of relative safety. However, it’s crucial to delve deeper.
When considering nighttime safety specifically, the data paints a different picture. Earls Colne’s night safety score is a concerning 12/100. This indicates that residents and visitors may feel less safe walking around after dark compared to other areas. The violent crime rate is also comparatively low at 26.4 per 1,000, but the low night safety score suggests that perceptions of safety, or the types of crimes occurring at night, contribute to this lower rating. It’s important to note that these scores are derived from reported crime data, and may not reflect the full picture of nighttime experiences.
It's crucial to remember that safety perceptions are subjective. While statistics provide valuable insights, personal experiences and feelings of safety are equally important. Factors such as street lighting, the presence of security patrols, and the general atmosphere of an area can all influence how safe people feel.
Ultimately, while Earls Colne has a lower overall crime rate than the UK average, the low night safety score of 12/100 suggests that exercising caution when walking alone at night is advisable. Being aware of your surroundings and taking appropriate safety measures is always recommended.