Calls for Lighting On Coleraine Riverside Path Amid Safety Concerns

Councillors have voiced concerns over the safety of a riverside walking route in Coleraine, warning that the popular path may be unsafe for use after dark.

The route, which stretches along the River Bann between Christie Park and Castleroe, is widely used by local residents for walking and running. However, calls for improvements have grown amid mounting concerns about the lack of lighting.

At the recent meeting of the council’s Leisure and Development Committee, Sinn Féin councillor Niamh Archibald tabled a motion proposing a feasibility study into lighting the pathway, with suggestions including the installation of solar-powered lights within the trees.

“This area is used by residents of all ages to exercise in a free and safe environment,” the motion read. “Indeed, the pathway from Christie Park along the river was promoted as the Heart Walk and part of the Highway to Health.”

Cllr Archibald, who represents Coleraine, said she had “consistently heard concerns from residents about the lack of lighting along the path”.

“This riverside route is a valued and well-used community asset and provides residents of all ages with a free and accessible space to walk, run and connect with nature,” she told fellow councillors. “However, concerns have been raised about the absence of adequate lighting, particularly during the darker winter months, eliminating people’s ability to use the path safely and confidently.

“Some residents have pointed out that the path becomes virtually unusable outside daylight hours in winter, because they can’t run before 8am or after 4pm, as it’s just too dark.

“Concerns around personal safety have also been raised, in particular at the junction where the bridge meets the underpass, where many people felt unsafe during the evening hours or when walking alone.”

She also emphasised the need for any proposed lighting solution to be environmentally sensitive: “Of course, any lighting solution should also be carefully designed to respect and protect any potential local wildlife, so options such as solar-powered, low-level or motion-activated lights could improve safety while minimising disruption to the natural environment.”

Alliance Alderman Yvonne Boyle, who seconded the motion, noted that she had been on the council when the route was first promoted as a Heart Walk, and supported the lighting initiative, particularly in light of recent concerns about women's safety.

“In February, I attended a public meeting in Coleraine about women’s safety, organised by Causeway Coast Women, at West Bann Development,” Alderman Boyle said. “Like many women, when I walk on my own along the river or in Somerset Park, I always need to be aware of my personal safety.

“The public meeting’s aim was to raise awareness of this issue, to increase community communication and to bring forward practical solutions. And this is one practical solution that would achieve that.”

The issue also drew support from DUP councillor and deputy mayor Tanya Stirling, who confirmed that the topic is frequently raised by her constituents.

“Lighting in Christie Park plays a crucial role in enhancing the experience for all those who visit this popular area,” she said. “The footfall is significant and, especially during the evenings, it’s essential that the park remains welcoming and safe for everyone.”

The motion was welcomed across party lines, with councillors united in seeking a resolution that balances public safety with environmental responsibility.