The question of whether Southborough is safe at night is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of available data. Southborough, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Tunbridge Wells, has a population of 10,560. Overall, it presents a relatively safe environment, but the picture changes considerably when considering nighttime safety.
Southborough’s overall crime rate stands at 51.0 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a lower incidence of crime compared to the national picture. The area’s overall safety score is 88 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79, indicating a perception of safety amongst residents. However, the crucial factor is the night safety score, which is a stark 13 out of 100. This significantly lower score highlights a heightened risk during nighttime hours.
It's important to understand that safety scores are composite measures, influenced by factors beyond reported crime statistics. They often incorporate resident perceptions and environmental factors. The disparity between the overall safety score and the night safety score in Southborough suggests that while the area might be perceived as generally safe, specific concerns arise after dark. These concerns could be related to factors like reduced visibility, fewer people on the streets, or changes in activity patterns.
While the provided data doesn't specify the types of crimes contributing to the lower night safety score, it is prudent to exercise increased caution when out and about in Southborough after sunset. This includes being mindful of your surroundings, sticking to well-lit and populated areas, and avoiding walking alone whenever possible. Reporting any suspicious behaviour to the police is also a vital contribution to the overall safety of the community. Further investigation into the specific crimes occurring at night in Southborough would provide a more detailed picture, but based on the available data, a cautious approach is advised.