Let there be light
Lighting for the Skatepark to go ahead
Earlier this year we ran a consultation about a proposal to install floodlights at the skatepark at the Salisbury Road Recreation Ground.
The proposed LED floodlights would be controlled by a timer which would automatically turn off at a specified time to allow use during the darker winter months. A switch-off time of 21:00hrs (9pm) was suggested, however this will be subject to review and change should issues arise.
- We received 161 responses
- 73% (117) supported adding floodlights
- 74% (121) supported the proposed switch-off time of 9pm
- Of 19 near neighbours, 3 supported of the lighting, 14 did not support the proposal and 2 had no preference
- Plenty of comments were received, including concerns about anti-social behaviour and impact on those living near by
At the Full Town Council meeting on 29 June 2020 the Town Council agreed to go ahead with the next stages of the project.
Lights had been promised to skaters as far back at 1987 and Councillors recognised that the lights would only be needed during the darker winter months, and were happy that this would keep the skate park accessible for the town’s young people after school and into the evening. However Councillors also wished to remain good neighbours and took note of the concerns raised, making it clear that persistent anti-social behaviour after the installation may result in the lighting timing being shortened or removed altogether (read the minutes of the meeting here).
The Town Council is now moving ahead with the next steps: we anticipate that the lights will be installed early in 2021.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our survey.
You can read a report detailing the consultation outcome in full, including comments here: Skatepark_consultation_report_2020.pdf321.24 KB