Improved lighting and CCTV to make people feel safer in Plymouth

More than 20 lights and 14 CCTV cameras are being installed in Plymouth city centre to improve safety and security.

The 22 new light columns, the tallest standing at 15m (49ft), are part of the £30m Armada Way scheme. The city council said the lights would be multi-directional and facing downwards to limit light pollution.

The authority said some of the CCTV cameras would tilt and zoom, meaning CCTV teams could “focus on anything untoward”.

Councillor Alison Raynsford, Violence Against Women and Girls champion, said improved lighting would help women and girls feel safer, and added “everyone deserves to feel safe and secure when they’re out in Plymouth”.

The authority said a number of CCTV cameras would be on the play area so children and parents could feel safer.

Councillor Sally Haydon, cabinet member for community safety, said: “A key aim of this scheme is to make people feel safer and wanting to stay longer in the city centre – that’s good for the businesses, good for our residents and visitors.”

Steve Hughes, city centre manager, said additional light would make the areas “less likely to see antisocial behaviour”.

“More cameras should help the police and Plymouth Against Retail Crime officers tackle shoplifters more effectively,” he added.

The city council said the Phoenix Foundation and children’s play equipment would also be lit up by the end of the scheme.

New planting, including three silver limes at the entrance to Armada Way, would also have up-lighting, it said.