The question of whether Caerleon, Newport, is safe to walk around at night is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of available data. The short answer is that while Caerleon’s overall crime rate is lower than the national average, the area’s night safety score raises concerns.
Caerleon is classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 7996. The overall crime rate stands at 59.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, comparatively, Caerleon experiences less crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom. However, it’s important to examine the specifics.
The violent crime rate in Caerleon is 24.5 per 1,000 residents. While this doesn't immediately paint a dire picture, it's a factor to consider, especially when assessing safety at night. The crucial detail lies in the 'Night Safety Score', which is a concerning 3/100. This score, compared to the UK average of 79/100, suggests that residents and visitors perceive Caerleon as less safe after dark.
It's essential to remember that safety scores are subjective and based on perceptions. They can be influenced by a variety of factors, including local news, personal experiences, and community sentiment. While the overall crime rate is below average, the low night safety score suggests that specific issues, such as poor lighting, isolated areas, or a perceived lack of police presence, may contribute to feelings of insecurity at night.
Therefore, while Caerleon might not be inherently dangerous, exercising caution when walking around at night is advisable. Staying on well-lit and populated routes, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas are sensible precautions. If possible, travelling in groups or utilising taxis or ride-sharing services for late-night journeys can further enhance your safety.