Floodlights to tackle crime in city churchyard

The church was constructed between 1823 and 1827 but then rebuilt after a fire in 1911

Measures are to be taken to try to prevent night-time crime and anti-social behaviour in a churchyard in Leicester.

Leicester City Council said it wanted to illuminate St George's church and install new railings .

The authority said the railings would fence off "hiding places" next to a footpath which is used to get from the city's cultural quarter and the area near the railway station.

The Grade II* listed church was constructed between 1823 and 1827 then rebuilt after it was destroyed by fire in 1911. It is currently used by Serbian Orthodox worshippers.

The council said the lights would both highlight the building's architecture and make the area safer.

Planning documents said the site was "uninviting" with poor lighting and visibility.

"This has created opportunities for anti-social behaviour and crime within the churchyard and has led to reduced perceptions of safety for residents and users of the site.

"It is hoped that a greater level of light will dissuade some of this behaviour."

The application is currently being assessed.