Photo caption: Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, and Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland discussing a State Government grant of $772,750 for council to install lighting along thew full length of a shared pathway from the CBD to the University of New England.
Monday, 13 March 2023
AN evening stroll, bike ride or run along the 10-kilometres pathway from the University of New England to the Armidale CBD will soon become a lot safer with new and additional lighting to be installed, thanks to a $772,750 State Government grant announced by Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall.
Mr Marshall said the new solar lighting would help everyone who used the pathway feel safe, whether they be university students coming into the city, cyclists, walkers or tourists.
“This funding will allow council to light up the whole length of the pathway, which is great news for the community which has been asking for the ‘blackspots’ to be lit up,” Mr Marshall said.
“Sadly, there has been recent spate anti-social behaviour along the areas of the pathway which doesn’t have lighting.
“With those areas to now be lit up with LED solar lights at all times, this sort of behaviour should be a thing of the past and everyone should feel a lot safer, particularly international students and women.
“Well done to Armidale Regional Council for securing the funds for new lighting which will improve people’s confidence when enjoying the beautiful surrounds of the city.”
Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland welcomed the funding and said the further roll-out of solar lighting would improve amenities across the popular shared pathway.
“The creeklands pathway has provided a central point of walking and cycling connection from the outer suburbs into the Armidale CBD for many years,” Cr Coupland said.
“Council will soon complete an Active Transport Strategy for the Armidale region and the creeklands shared pathway is an important connector for the development of active transport outcomes for the city.”