The question of whether Heighington is safe to walk around at night is one that many residents and potential visitors will understandably ask. Based on available data, Heighington, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Darlington with a population of 1546, presents a mixed picture.
Firstly, the overall crime rate in Heighington stands at 31.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000. A safety score of 92 out of 100 further reinforces this positive assessment, exceeding the UK average of 79. This suggests that, generally, Heighington is considered a relatively safe place.
However, a more nuanced view emerges when considering violent crime. The violent crime rate in Heighington is 14.9 per 1,000 residents. While this is not exceptionally high, it's important to acknowledge. The most concerning element is the 'Night Safety Score' which is notably low at 18 out of 100. This indicates that residents and visitors may feel less safe walking around Heighington after dark.
It's crucial to understand that these figures represent statistical averages. While Heighington’s overall crime rate is low, individual experiences can vary. The low population size of 1546 means that even a small number of incidents can impact these rates proportionally. The lower night safety score likely reflects perceptions of safety after dark, which can be influenced by factors beyond just crime statistics, such as lighting and visibility.
Therefore, while the overall picture is encouraging, exercising caution when walking around Heighington at night is advisable. Being aware of your surroundings, sticking to well-lit and populated routes, and considering travelling with others can all contribute to a safer experience.