Residents and visitors to Carryduff Park are set to benefit from a major improvement project as Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council announces the start of works to install new lighting throughout key areas of the popular community park.
The project forms part of the council's wider commitment to creating attractive, safe and accessible public spaces that support healthier lifestyles, stronger communities and increased opportunities for recreation and physical activity.
The new lighting infrastructure will help extend the hours that the park can be safely used during the darker winter months, providing greater opportunities for walking, exercise and outdoor recreation all year round.
Councillor Bronagh Magee, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said: "This investment demonstrates the council's continued commitment to creating inclusive public spaces that can be enjoyed safely by everyone.
"Good lighting plays an important role in helping people feel confident using parks and open spaces, particularly during darker evenings. It supports accessibility for people with disabilities, improves perceptions of safety and helps ensure that local facilities remain welcoming and usable for all sections of our community."
The lighting scheme supports a number of key objectives contained within the council's Corporate Plan, Community Plan and Open Spaces Strategy. It will help encourage greater participation in community life, increase opportunities for physical activity and support positive mental wellbeing outcomes across the borough.
Alderman James Baird, Chair of the Regeneration and Growth Committee, welcomed the investment. "Carryduff Park is a valued community asset used by people of all ages every day. This project will help ensure that more residents can continue to enjoy the park throughout the year, particularly during the shorter days and longer evenings of autumn and winter.
"By improving accessibility and visibility, we are creating a more welcoming environment for walkers, families, sports participants and those looking to stay active and connected within their local community."
Carryduff Park is used by a wide range of residents and includes walking trails, outdoor exercise equipment and recreational spaces. The enhanced lighting will allow these facilities to remain accessible for longer periods, benefiting those whose work, family or caring responsibilities may prevent them from exercising during daylight hours.
The project has also been developed with equality and accessibility considerations in mind, ensuring that best-practice guidance relating to inclusive design, personal safety and accessibility is reflected throughout the detailed design process.
As part of the council's commitment to sustainability, the lighting system will be designed to operate efficiently, with measures incorporated to ensure lighting is provided when needed while minimising unnecessary energy use.
The Carryduff Park Lighting Project represents an important investment in community infrastructure, helping to support healthier lifestyles, safer public spaces and stronger local communities for years to come.