How can we incorporate the ‘Safer Parks for Women & Girls’ guidance into our project?

How to make parks safer is a question that continues to challenge urban planners and local councils. Imagine a park where every woman and girl feels safe and confident, able to enjoy the space without fear. Unfortunately, many find parks daunting, especially in the evening. Safety in public spaces is essential for making them accessible and enjoyable for all. The Safer Parks for Women & Girls guidance highlights the importance of designing parks where security and accessibility go hand in hand, allowing everyone to experience the outdoors without worry.

‘Safer Parks’ legislative framework 

The UK Government’s Safer Streets initiatives highlight the importance of well-lit public spaces in deterring crime and antisocial behaviour. Effective lighting enhances visibility and security, especially for women in dark or isolated areas.

As urban planning evolves, new regulations mandate that local councils prioritise energy-efficient options like LED outdoor ground lights when designing or upgrading parks. This shift promotes safer parks for women and girls and aligns with councils’ sustainability goals.

By adopting energy-efficient lighting systems, councils can create parks that meet legal standards while being welcoming to all visitors, ensuring a balance between safety and environmental responsibility.

Beyond lighting: Designing with safety in mind 

Lighting alone is not enough. To truly create safer parks, we must consider the overall environment, usage, and behaviour patterns. This includes removing overgrown foliage that blocks sightlines, ensuring regular patrols or park staff are present, and designing open sightlines from one area of the park to another.

Inclusive park design also means having amenities such as accessible toilet facilities, well-maintained paths, emergency contact points, and areas where people naturally gather—like cafés or play spaces—which can increase passive surveillance.

Effective lighting and good wayfinding for safer parks 

Well-designed lighting schemes are important for creating public spaces safer for all. Effective lighting deters crime and enhances public safety by illuminating pathways, entrances, and seating areas.

For instance, motion-sensor LED ground lights can be placed along pathways and near entry points, activating with movement to conserve energy while improving security and navigation. Clear signage and intuitive wayfinding systems also empower users, reducing anxiety and helping them navigate the space confidently. Incorporating dedicated running and walking tracks not only encourages physical activity but also enhances visibility throughout the park.

Bollard lights can outline pathways and enhance the aesthetic appeal while providing necessary illumination. Through effective lighting and strategic wayfinding, parks can become safer and more welcoming for all users.

Community engagement: A critical piece 

Engaging with women and girls in the planning process is crucial. Their lived experiences provide insight into areas that may feel unsafe or neglected. Hosting community feedback sessions, walk-throughs, and public consultations can ensure the park is designed with their needs in mind.

By listening to local voices, planners can make more informed decisions and build trust with the communities they aim to serve.

How to choose the right outdoor lights for your project

Selecting the appropriate ground lights for your park project is essential for achieving safety and aesthetic goals. Here are some practical tips to guide your decision-making:

• Energy efficiency: Choose LED lighting for energy efficiency and consistent illumination, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
• Eco-friendliness: Consider solar-powered lights to align with sustainability goals, as they harness solar energy and reduce reliance on the electrical grid.
• Durability and weather resistance: Select fixtures designed to withstand various weather conditions, using materials that resist rust, corrosion, and UV damage.
• Wildlife protection: Opt for Amber LED lights to minimise light pollution, which is vital for preserving nocturnal wildlife while providing adequate illumination for park users.

By focusing on these factors, you can choose outdoor ground lights that enhance safety, aesthetics, and sustainability, creating an inviting atmosphere for all visitors.

Is your park lighting design compliant?

Creating a safe and welcoming park requires adherence to UK safety regulations and environmental policies in your lighting design. Compliance enhances both aesthetics and security. Here’s a brief overview of how to navigate local regulations and make effective lighting choices.

Key compliance requirements

• Adequate lumens: Ensure pathways and entrances have sufficient brightness, typically around 5 lux for pedestrian walkways.
• Minimal light spill: Use shielded fixtures to direct light where needed while minimising disruption to nearby homes and wildlife.
• Proper distribution: Achieve even illumination across public spaces to eliminate dark areas and improve safety.

Supporting sustainability goals

With a focus on sustainability, solar-powered lights can help parks meet net-zero carbon initiatives. These lights harness solar energy, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources and lowering energy costs while supporting broader environmental goals.

Conclusion: Let’s make our parks inclusive and secure for all 

How to make parks safer is a multifaceted challenge—but one we can tackle by combining thoughtful design, sustainable lighting, and community collaboration. Incorporating well-placed outdoor lighting is crucial for adhering to ‘Safer Parks for Women & Girls’ guidance. By pairing these lighting solutions with effective wayfinding and clear signage, we can create a welcoming atmosphere for all park users.

At Hornbeck (formerly Made by Landmark), we provide a variety of LED light options and bespoke wayfinding solutions for your project needs. Connect with us today for a consultation, and together we can build safer, more inclusive parks that everyone can enjoy—at any time of day.