![\"Councillor](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/dd9ccd3c-1dab-4ccf-bb4a-6d39e68229d7.jpg\")
<\/p>\nThe path, which runs along the River Bann between Christie Park and Castleroe, is a popular walking and running route. <\/p>\n
At this month\u2019s Leisure and Development Committee meeting, Sinn Fein councillor Niamh Archibald proposed that the council creates a feasibility study and option proposals, such as solar lighting in trees, to light the pathway.<\/p>\n
The motion added: \u201cThis area is used by residents of all ages to exercise in a free and safe environment. Indeed, the pathway from Christie Park along the river was promoted as the Heart Walk and part of the Highway to Health.\u201d<\/p>\n
Cllr Archibald added that, as a Coleraine representative, she had \u201cconsistently heard concerns from residents about the lack of lighting along the path\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis riverside route is a valued and well-used community asset and provides residents of all ages with a free and accessible space to walk, run and connect with nature,\u201d she continued.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Councillor Niamh Archibald\n<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, concerns have been raised about the absence of adequate lighting, particularly during the darker winter months, eliminating [people\u2019s] ability to use the path safely and confidently.<\/p>\n
\u201cSome residents have pointed out that the path becomes virtually unusable outside daylight hours in winter, because [they] can\u2019t run before 8am or after 4pm, as it\u2019s just too dark.<\/p>\n
\u201cConcerns around personal safety have also been raised, in particular at the junction where the bridge meets the underpass, where many people felt unsafe during the evening hours or when walking alone.<\/p>\n
\u201cOf course, any lighting solution should also be carefully designed to respect and protect any potential local wildlife, so options such as solar-powered, low-level or motion-activated lights could improve safety while minimising disruption to the natural environment.\u201d<\/p>\n
Alliance Alderman Yvonne Boyle seconded the motion and noted that she was a councillor when the pathway was designated as a Heart Walk.<\/p>\n
She said the lighting would be especially beneficial for women, as it would alleviate safety concerns.<\/p>\n