Elderly 'at risk of attack' in anti-social behaviour hotspot

The public right of way linking The Causeway in Chippenham to the busy Wood Lane car park has been an increasing issue for local residents and businesses, who fear poor lighting has made the alleyway “unsafe”.

Locals claim that the lack of visibility puts people, particularly the young or elderly, at risk of injury from obstacles or uneven surfaces.

One member of the public recently required hospital treatment after walking into a cycle barrier in the walkway.

There are also fears anti-social behaviour is encouraged by the lack of lighting and Cllr William Douglas claims the area has been a “hotspot” for drug dealing.

The issue was discussed at a Chippenham Town Council planning meeting, after the submission of a Highways Improvement Request for additional street lighting.

The walkway headed to The Causeway (Image: Newsquest)

A statement from the applicant said: “Wood Lane car park provides an important parking facility for businesses and organisations based in the Causeway and Market Place, and for many residents and their visitors.

“Over the last ten years we have become increasingly concerned about the risk of injury in the evenings from uneven surfaces and obstacles in the walkway due to the lack of lighting.

“There is also concern that due to inadequate lighting there is an increase in anti-social behaviour and a risk of assault.”

They suggested lighting at both entrances and the middle of the walkway could solve the issue, an idea supported by councillors.

Cllr Matthew Short said: “I absolutely support this, this has been a real concern for a long time now because it gets really dark.

“It could be quite a simple solution that would make a big difference to safety during the night.”

Wood Lane car park (Image: Newsquest)

Cllr Nic Puntis also supported the plans and suggested writing to the local MP, Michelle Donelan, over concerns surrounding anti-social behaviour.

He added: “This is highlighting, and it’s not the only area, an area of anti-social behaviour.

“There seems to still be a problem with anti-social behaviour, and I think that’s something the MP ought to get involved in.”

Councillors voted to support the scheme to improve the “safety of pedestrians” and discourage potential anti-social behaviour.

After the issue of light pollution having a “detrimental” impact on residents was raised, the committee also resolved to suggest the use of some form of motion detectors.

The request has now been submitted to the Chippenham LHFIG which will decide what action, if any, will be taken.