The question of whether Stowmarket town centre is safe on weekend nights requires a careful look at the available data. The overall crime rate in Stowmarket (a Built-Up Area or BUA) stands at 64.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests, in general, Stowmarket is less prone to crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom.
However, a more granular assessment is needed to address concerns about weekend nights. Stowmarket's safety score, a broader measure of perceived safety, is 84 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. This indicates a generally positive perception of safety within the area. Furthermore, the violent crime rate is 31.4 per 1,000 residents, again lower than the UK average.
The crucial element impacting weekend night safety is the 'Night Safety Score,' which is a concerning 9 out of 100. This comparatively low score signifies that people may feel less safe in Stowmarket town centre during the evening and nighttime hours. It's important to note that this score is a measure of perception and doesn't necessarily correlate directly with actual crime incidents, but it does reflect residents' and visitors' feelings of security.
It’s essential to understand that these statistics represent averages. Specific areas within Stowmarket may experience different levels of safety. While the overall crime rate is lower than the UK average, the lower night safety score warrants increased vigilance. Consider travelling in groups, sticking to well-lit and populated routes, and being mindful of your belongings when out on weekend nights in Stowmarket.