The question of whether Kirton (East Suffolk) town centre is safe on weekend nights requires a careful examination of available data. Overall, Kirton, classified as a Built-up Area (BUA) with a population of 1438, presents a mixed picture. The crime rate in Kirton stands at 27.1 incidents per 1,000 people, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a comparatively safer environment than many areas across the country. The overall safety score for Kirton is 91 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, further reinforcing this perception of relative safety.
However, a critical element to consider is the 'Night Safety Score,' which is notably low at 17 out of 100. This score specifically assesses perceptions of safety after dark and highlights a potential area of concern. The violent crime rate is also worth noting, standing at 18.1 per 1,000 people. While not excessively high, it contributes to the lower night safety score and warrants consideration.
It's important to understand that these figures represent statistical averages. Individual experiences can vary greatly, and perceived safety is subjective. The lower night safety score likely reflects concerns about visibility, potential for antisocial behaviour, or simply a feeling of unease after dark, even if actual crime incidents are not dramatically elevated. The population of Kirton is relatively small, which can mean that even a small number of incidents can disproportionately impact crime rates and perceptions of safety. Therefore, while the overall crime rate is reassuring, the lower night safety score indicates that extra vigilance is recommended when visiting the town centre on weekend nights.