New lanterns for more security in the Westpark: Dark corners Adé!

New lanterns for more security in the Westpark: Dark corners Adé!

In the Westpark something is happening! From the day after Pentecost, three new lanterns will be set up there, which should ensure more light and safety on the main paths. This measure, which is also a direct result of an application from the SPD parliamentary group in the district council of Aachen-Mitte, aims to create illuminated paths that enable the park to be used safely in the evening. According to euregio aktuell a lantern between Lochnerstraße and Welkenrather Straße is set up as well as another on the circular route, on the corner between Westpark and Gartenstraße.

The Westpark is not only a popular resort with playgrounds and grill areas, but also an important habitat for different animal species. But there is a dilemma here: While the levied lighting questions could cause more security, there are also concerns about the effects on the wildlife. In particular, the lighting around the pond, which has not yet existed, could disturb the natural environment. The administration recommends that only to illuminate the main crossing path and to do without comprehensive lighting in the northern area of ​​the park, since these could have negative consequences for the insect population, as reported to

lighting as a safety factor

lighting plays a central role in security in public space, not only for traffic safety, but also for actually perceived social security. In the dark, the view is significantly reduced, which makes it difficult to assess distances. Especially women, especially older people, feel unsafe, as is shown on FGS Berlin . Over two thirds of the women interviewed stated that they were afraid of attacks in the dark. Effective lighting could help reduce these fears and thus motivate more people to use the park in the evening.

The project to improve the lighting in the Westpark also has a practical dimension: the duration of the work is about two weeks, with the main path between Lochnerstrasse and Welkenather Straße remains open. A small side route with benches, on the other hand, is briefly blocked to implement the cable laying.

The estimated costs for installing the lighting systems amount to around 18,000 euros. Unfortunately, the funds for this are not planned in the current budget. Nevertheless, it remains to be hoped that the progress in the lighting of the park will not only be a better view, but also a safer feeling among the park visitors, while at the same time the animal residents of the western park are respected.