The question of whether Launceston town centre is safe during weekend nights is a valid concern, and the data provides some insight. Launceston, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Cornwall, has a population of 8,428. Its overall crime rate stands at 91.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is very close to the UK average of 91.6. This suggests that, generally, the level of crime is not significantly higher or lower than the national picture. However, a deeper look at specific crime categories and safety scores paints a more nuanced picture.
Specifically, Launceston's violent crime rate is 46.5 per 1,000 people. While this figure doesn't automatically indicate an unsafe environment, it does highlight a potential area of concern, particularly when considering evening activities. The most worrying statistic is the 'Night Safety Score' of just 2/100. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 79/100 and strongly suggests that individuals may feel less safe during nighttime hours in the town centre. This low score likely reflects a combination of factors, including perceived risk, actual incident rates, and the availability of adequate lighting and security measures.
It’s important to note that safety scores are subjective and based on perceptions as well as data. A safety score of 76/100 overall indicates a moderate level of safety, but the stark contrast with the night safety score underscores the importance of exercising caution after dark. While the overall crime rate isn't drastically different from the UK average, the data clearly suggests that the risk of experiencing crime, particularly violent crime, is likely elevated during weekend nights in Launceston's town centre. Individuals are advised to remain vigilant, avoid walking alone, and be mindful of their surroundings.