Plan to make Bristol parks safer for women and girls
The Council has endorsed a new plan
Bristol parks are set to be made safer for women and girls, after Full Council endorsed a plan put forward by the Labour party.
Two parks will be selected to pilot improved safety measures.
They include things like better lighting along paths; the installation of easily accessible help / information points; more regular and visible staff presence; the removal of overgrown vegetation; and the creation of clear sightlines.
Measures were put forward by Lisa Durston, Labour Councillor for Filwood ward, and are based upon research from West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Green Flag.
Moving the motion, she said: “We all know how important parks and green spaces are, for our physical health, our mental health, our connection to nature and a sense of community. We also know that not everyone gets to enjoy them equally.
"Girls’ participation in parks drops off sharply around age 11 or 12, often because the spaces and activities just don’t feel designed for them. I’ve seen this with my own daughters and their friend and it’s a pattern we need to change.
"That means recognising the different barriers people face. Disabled people, racially and ethnically minoritised communities, LGBTQ+ people can all experience public spaces differently. And let’s not forget that boys also need safe, supportive spaces to express themselves and take part in positive activities."