The question of whether West Bergholt is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced response based on available data. While the village generally presents a favourable safety profile, the specific score relating to nighttime safety raises concerns.
West Bergholt, a BUA (Built-up Area) within Colchester, has a population of 3301. Its overall crime rate stands at 47.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, generally speaking, West Bergholt experiences less crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom. The village's safety score of 88 out of 100 further reinforces this impression, surpassing the UK average of 79.
However, a deeper look reveals a more complex picture. The violent crime rate in West Bergholt is recorded as 20.3 per 1,000 residents. While not excessively high, it’s a factor to consider. Critically, the night safety score for West Bergholt is a concerning 13 out of 100. This score directly assesses residents' perception of safety when walking alone at night and indicates a lower level of safety during those hours.
It's important to remember that these are statistical averages. Individual experiences can vary, and crime can be unpredictable. The night safety score suggests that factors such as lighting, perceived police presence, and the general atmosphere at night might be contributing to this lower rating. It does not mean that crime is rampant, but it does indicate that residents may feel less secure walking alone after dark.
Therefore, while West Bergholt is generally safer than many areas in the UK, exercising caution when walking at night is advisable. Consider sticking to well-lit and populated routes, and be mindful of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable, exploring alternative transportation options is always a sensible precaution.