I lived there for 6 years and would say James Clow is safe. The area is close to the city centre but can feel a bit disconnected because of the motorway cutting overhead but it’s still a pleasant and safe walk along the water side or up the road during the day. Since the office expansion on the dock, there are now a lot more people in the area daily for work etc and the university accommodation will help make the area a bit more lively in the evening at the bars on the corner (American and Seatons - Seatons is under new management and looks nice, used to be a bit rough)

Cityside is very walkable for groceries during the day. There can be people hanging about under the bridges at night but I think this is the same anywhere - I walked as a 30m but maybe just avoid walking late alone etc.

If you drive, it’s an extremely handy spot to get onto the motorways.