Hi,
As a resident in Bray I sometimes here the same stories. I've been socialising in Bray for 15 years and living there for 5 but have never had any problems.
There are trouble spots in Bray - some of the older local authority estates especially, but I imagine wandering through housing estates is not the way you intend to spend your weekend nights.
Living on the Strand Road you have the obvious benefit of the sea and promenade but fact of the matter is you also live close to 8 or 9 pubs (4 of them with late night clubs/bars). So be prepared for some noise at the weekends.
Be sure to check out 'Campo Di Fiori' - excellent Italian restaurant just off the seafront.