The question of whether crime rates are higher in Durham's historic centre is a valid concern. Data for Durham (identified as a Built-Up Area or BUA) within County Durham reveals a crime rate of 98.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This figure is marginally higher than the UK national average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents.
It's important to note that this figure represents the overall crime rate for the BUA, which encompasses the historic centre and surrounding areas. It doesn't isolate crime specifically within the historic centre itself. The population of this BUA is 62,733, providing a context for the crime statistics.
While the crime rate is slightly elevated, Durham’s safety score stands at 79 out of 100. This is precisely the same as the UK national average, suggesting that residents generally perceive the area as reasonably safe. A safety score of 79 indicates a level of safety considered typical for the UK.
It’s crucial to interpret these numbers within the broader context of urban living. Crime rates are often influenced by factors such as population density, socio-economic conditions, and the presence of specific industries or activities. Further investigation would be needed to determine the types of crimes contributing to the slightly higher rate and whether certain areas within the BUA are disproportionately affected.
Always consult official sources, such as the Police.uk website, for the most up-to-date and detailed crime data for specific locations within Durham.