2024 Question 2 - Responses
Cycling UK Stevenage supported a recent campaign for the installation of low-level lighting through Fairlands Valley Park. Do you support the provision of lighting for this key walking, wheeling, and cycling route from Fairlands Way to Broadhall Way?
Conservative
We would support lighting that does not affect the wildlife and produce light pollution.
Green
Yes, we support the installation of lighting along Fairlands Valley Park. There would need to be consideration about the lighting installation as far as wildlife is concerned, however this may mean less cars would be needed for journeys thus reducing other impacts on wildlife. We would also press the council to reduce other light pollution around the town.
Labour
Our motion in support of the popular petition in December was supported by all political parties, and the work we promised is being done. As agreed, the various low level lighting options are being explored by officers and will be shared with Cycling UK Stevenage and other petition partners so a business case can be presented in this year’s capital and revenue budgets for the agreed systems to be implemented. Our major concern is to ensure any systems are acceptable in ecological and environmental terms.
We further pledge that similar co-operative survey work with Cycling UK Stevenage is needed for all the other major Green Spaces in Stevenage being reviewed from this year, including for example: St Nicholas Park, Shephalbury Park, and Chells Park.
Liberal Democrat
Yes, Liberal Democrats do support suitable low-level lighting in appropriate areas across Fairlands Valley Park. As a key travel route, it is imperative that cyclists and pedestrians feel safe within our fantastic park which also seeks to protect and maintain the natural environment throughout the park.
Reform UK
Answer will be displayed here.
TUSC
The response received was a general statement addressing all 6 questions and can be viewed here.