The question of whether Capel is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced understanding of the available data. Based on current figures, Capel, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Mole Valley, has a population of 1625. The overall crime rate stands at 47.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is considerably lower than the United Kingdom average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, generally, Capel experiences less crime than many other areas in the country. Its overall safety score is 89 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79, providing a positive indication of general safety.
However, the data reveals a significant disparity when specifically considering nighttime safety. Capel’s night safety score is only 14 out of 100 – a considerably lower rating than its overall safety score. This suggests that residents and visitors may perceive a higher level of risk after dark. The violent crime rate in Capel is 17.8 per 1,000, which while not excessively high, contributes to this perception of reduced safety at night. It’s important to remember that safety scores are based on a combination of reported crime and perceived safety, and a low score can reflect concerns even if actual crime is not dramatically elevated.
It's crucial to interpret these figures within context. A small population like Capel's (1625) means that even a relatively small number of incidents can significantly impact crime rates per 1,000. While the overall crime rate is lower than average, the lower night safety score indicates that individuals may feel less secure walking alone after dark. Factors contributing to this could include limited street lighting, fewer people around, or local perceptions of safety. Therefore, while Capel benefits from a lower-than-average crime rate, exercising caution and taking preventative measures when walking at night is advisable.