Local woman calls on council to light up Fairlands Valley Park

Jennifer Huygen wants lighting installed in Fairlands Valley Park so users can feel safe

A woman wants "everyone to feel safe" in a town centre park which she says is full of "pitch black pathways".

Jennifer Huygen rides through Fairlands Valley Park in Stevenage and wants "eco-friendly, wildlife-conscious lighting" on its paths.

She will present a 1,300-strong petition to Labour-run Stevenage Borough Council at a meeting this evening.

The authority says it will discuss the petition and consider its next steps.

Fairlands Valley Park is in the heart of the Hertfordshire town and has extensive leisure facilities across its 120 acres, including an aqua park, play area, sailing centre, outdoor activity centre, four lakes, conservation areas and woodland.

It also provides a variety of habitats which support a range of wildlife including grassland which provides a home to great green bush cricket colony.

Jennifer Huygen said lighting was needed to make sure "everyone can feel safe while using our public park"

Ms Huygen's petition is backed by the Stevenage Striders and Fairlands Valley Spartans running clubs, and Cycling UK.

She said: "This action is vital to ensure the park remains a safe, accessible, and enjoyable environment for all community members, irrespective of the time of day.

"This park is part of our community's heartbeat - it's where we connect with nature, unwind from our busy lives, and watch our children play.

"But half of the year, when the days are shorter, many of us are deprived of this vital community asset."

Ms Huygen took photos in the same spot in the park to highlight the difference between daylight and night-time

By installing proper lighting, Jennifer said it would "not just brighten pathways, but also connect communities around Fairlands Valley Park, enhancing safety, and extending the park's welcome to every resident, every day".

"This isn't about luxury; it's about making sure that everyone can feel safe while using our public park," she said.

The council debate was triggered when the petition has reached 1,000 signatures.

A council spokesperson said: "The petition will be considered by councillors at the full council meeting on 20 December, where councillors will discuss the petition and confirm the next steps."