The question of whether St Ives is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced look at available data. Based on current figures for the BUA of St Ives (Huntingdonshire) in Huntingdonshire, the overall crime rate stands at 68.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment compared to many areas of the country.
However, a deeper dive reveals a more complex picture. The safety score for St Ives is 84 out of 100, which is above the UK average of 79, indicating a relatively safe area. The violent crime rate is 27.7 per 1,000 residents, again lower than the national average. While these figures appear reassuring, it's crucial to consider the 'Night Safety Score'. This score, critically important when assessing safety after dark, is only 8 out of 100, significantly below the UK average.
This low night safety score suggests that residents and visitors may feel less safe walking around St Ives at night. While the specific reasons for this score are not detailed in the provided data, it’s a key indicator that warrants caution. It’s important to note that these scores are based on reported crime and perceived safety, and individual experiences may vary.
It’s also crucial to remember that crime rates are averages and can fluctuate. The data provided doesn't specify the type of crimes reported, so it’s difficult to determine if the lower crime rate is predominantly related to petty theft or more serious offences. Therefore, while St Ives' overall crime rate is lower than the UK average, the comparatively low night safety score implies a need for increased vigilance when walking around after dark.