Located in the heart of Levenshulme, in South Manchester, Cringle Park is a green space for families, dog owners and everyone alike to enjoy. However, during winter months Cringle Park loses its appeal due to the lack of lighting, making it an unsafe environment for families and park-goers from the local community.

Two years ago, almost to the day, a 31-year old woman was assaulted and raped in broad daylight while she was out on a walk around her local park, Cringle Park. This unfortunate event struck a chord with the local community in Levenshulme. A week after the assault, hundreds joined the ‘Walk Without Fear’ around Cringle Park, to show solidarity towards the victim. Police presence increased during the following month to reassure the neighbourhood.

Unfortunately, no long-term solutions were put in place to help make Cringle Park a safe area for all.

This is what our campaign, Light Up Cringle Park, is trying to change. The aim of the campaign is to make local authorities aware of the pressing issue surrounding safety in Cringle Park. We want to make sure that effective lighting initiatives are promptly introduced within and around Cringle Park, for the benefit of the community in Levenshulme.

In a briefing released by The College Of Policing, it was effectively found that improved lighting “was associated with a reduction in crime of 21%”. Having improved lighting is a key factor to deterring crime and antisocial behaviour in local communities.

By introducing better lighting in the park and having key areas well lit, such as pathways, pedestrians can be clearly visible and reassured that they will not be targets of crime. With better lighting also comes more community involvement, as social areas of the park will be available to be used after 4 pm during winter.

Help us make Cringle Park safe for all by signing the petition now.