The question of whether Morpeth town centre is safe on weekend nights is a valid concern, and understanding the data is key to forming an informed opinion. Morpeth, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Northumberland, has a population of 17,650. Examining the available statistics reveals a nuanced picture.
The overall crime rate in Morpeth stands at 89.0 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is slightly below the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting that, generally, Morpeth experiences a comparable level of crime to the rest of the country. However, the safety score of 79/100 is in line with the UK average, indicating a perception of safety that isn't significantly better or worse than the national average.
A more concerning aspect is the violent crime rate, which is recorded at 38.5 incidents per 1,000 people. While it’s important to contextualise this within the broader population, it does highlight a potential area of concern. The most telling statistic, however, is the night safety score of just 4/100. This exceptionally low score specifically addresses perceptions of safety during nighttime hours and suggests that people feel less secure in Morpeth town centre when it is dark. This score is significantly lower than the UK average.
It's important to remember that crime statistics represent reported incidents and don't capture the full picture of safety. They also don't reflect the nature or severity of crimes. Factors such as police visibility, community engagement, and the types of businesses operating in the area can all influence perceptions of safety. Given the low night safety score, exercising caution and remaining vigilant during weekend nights is recommended. Consider travelling with friends, sticking to well-lit and populated areas, and being aware of your surroundings.