Published: 25/01/2022
WORK to install new lighting and surveillance has started in Whitehaven’s Castle Park to help Copeland residents feel safer.
The Home Office’s Safer Streets Fund has granted £190k to Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall. Some of this is being used by Copeland Borough Council to light the paths within the park and install CCTV cameras.
Increased surveillance should deter the anti-social behaviour that has become a common occurrence in the park.
The installation of the security cameras and lights is fully funded by the Safer Streets Fund, including five years of maintenance cover.
Just under 1,000 people from groups across Whitehaven will also be invited to take part in active bystander training, which provides the skills to respond appropriately when witnessing neighbourhood crime. Those invited to receive the training will include security staff, taxi drivers, youth groups and schools.
A county-wide campaign will also be launched to promote a healthy and positive understanding of consent and educate people on the dangers of sexual violence.
Councillor Andy Pratt, the Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said: “we have listened to the community about the ongoing issues in Castle Park and need to make it a safe place for people to enjoy. These installations will be a big step towards tackling issues such as violence, graffiti and littering.”
Peter McCall said: “We want everyone to feel as safe as possible here in Cumbria and I hope that this work will benefit the community in the same way we have seen in the past two bids.”
For more information visit the PCC website: https://cumbria-pcc.gov.uk/whitehaven-to-benefit-from-the-home-offices-safer-streets-fund/
