The question of where to avoid parking overnight in Shildon, County Durham, is a valid concern given the area’s crime statistics. Shildon, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 10,474, unfortunately exhibits a higher crime rate than the national average. The overall crime rate in Shildon stands at 177.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly exceeding the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a greater likelihood of criminal activity compared to many other areas in the country.
Furthermore, Shildon’s safety score is 60 out of 100, considerably lower than the UK average of 79. This score reflects the perceived level of safety within the area and provides an additional indicator of potential risk. A breakdown of the crime figures reveals a violent crime rate of 62.2 per 1,000 residents, which also surpasses the national average.
While the data doesn’t specify particular streets or locations within Shildon where overnight parking is particularly problematic, it highlights the need for caution across the entire BUA. Given the elevated crime rate, it's prudent to avoid parking in isolated or poorly lit areas. Prioritising areas with higher foot traffic and visibility will generally reduce the risk of theft or vandalism. It’s also advisable to park near CCTV cameras if possible, as this can act as a deterrent and provide evidence if an incident does occur.
It’s important to remember that crime can occur anywhere, and these statistics represent overall trends. They do not guarantee that specific locations are inherently unsafe, but they do suggest a heightened level of vigilance is warranted when choosing an overnight parking spot in Shildon.