The question of how safe it is to walk alone in Pencoed at night requires a nuanced understanding of available data. Pencoed, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Bridgend, has a population of 10,015. Overall, Pencoed presents a relatively safer profile compared to the UK average. The area’s overall crime rate stands at 57.0 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This translates to a safety score of 86 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79.
However, the specific data concerning nighttime safety paints a more cautious picture. Pencoed’s night safety score is notably low, registering at just 11 out of 100. This indicates that perceptions of safety at night are considerably lower than during the day. The violent crime rate is 27.0 per 1,000, which, while not drastically higher than some areas, contributes to this lower night safety score. It’s crucial to understand that this score reflects a combination of reported crimes and perceived safety, and may be influenced by factors beyond simple crime statistics.
It's important to interpret these figures within context. A lower crime rate overall doesn’t guarantee complete safety at night. The night safety score likely reflects concerns about visibility, potential for antisocial behaviour, or a general feeling of vulnerability after dark. While the violent crime rate isn't exceptionally high, any level of violent crime is concerning. Therefore, while Pencoed generally benefits from a lower crime rate than the UK average, exercising caution is still highly recommended when walking alone at night. Consider alternative routes, walking with a friend, or using well-lit, populated pathways.