Smart lighting enhances safety in Carlisle's Portland Square Park

Improved safety in Carlisle's Portland Square Park is expected following the installation of smart lighting and other measures aiming to combat antisocial behaviour.

Five new security lights, funded by £20,000 from the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, have recently been installed in the park through the government's Hotspot Action Fund.

The smart lighting system is activated upon detecting movement, serving to increase visibility and safety in an area which previously had no dedicated lighting.

The initiative is part of wider improvements led by Cumberland Council's Local Focus Hub, aiming to create a safer environment for park users.

Collaborating closely with local police, property developers, and Portland Square residents, the council has extended CCTV coverage and cut back trees to facilitate clearer sightlines for the cameras.

David Allen, Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, expressed his support for the improvements: “Everyone deserves to feel safe and welcome in their own community. Parks are a great place to meet friends and spend time with family. However, at night with no lighting, it can feel quite intimidating. That is why I was happy to support Cumberland Council’s bid to add lights to Portland Square Park.”

The park has suffered from various crimes, including drug activity and environmental offences.

Local residents like Chris McClelland have already noticed significant improvements in safety.

“Since the new lights were installed, the change has been incredible. For the first time in a long while, the area feels warm and alive again. Walking home in the evenings now feels safer, calmer, and so much more reassuring."

The changes stem from collaboration among various partners in Cumberland Council's Local Focus Hub, including local police and services.

The Local Focus Hub is committed to ongoing monitoring of the improvements to ensure continued safety and vibrancy in neighbourhoods.