The question of whether Longfield, New Ash Green and Hartley is safe to walk around at night is complex, and requires a look at the available data. While the area presents a generally positive safety profile, the specific metric for nighttime safety warrants careful consideration.
Longfield, New Ash Green and Hartley, a built-up area within Sevenoaks, has a population of 17,038. Its overall crime rate stands at 62.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a lower level of criminal activity compared to many other areas in the United Kingdom. The area’s overall safety score is 87 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79. The violent crime rate is recorded at 19.1 per 1,000, which is also below the national average, offering some reassurance.
However, the most pertinent data point regarding nighttime safety is the area’s night safety score: a concerning 13/100. This low score signifies that, when it comes to safety after dark, residents and visitors may feel less secure. It's important to understand that this score is a composite assessment and doesn’t specify the types of crimes contributing to this rating. It's possible that concerns relate to perceived risk, street lighting, or the presence of antisocial behaviour.
While the overall crime rate is comparatively low, a night safety score of 13/100 suggests that the perception of safety, or the actual incidence of crime specifically at night, warrants caution. It’s advisable to be extra vigilant and to take precautions when walking alone after dark in Longfield, New Ash Green and Hartley. This includes sticking to well-lit and populated routes, being aware of your surroundings, and informing someone of your plans and estimated time of arrival.