The process for improving street lighting in Gravesham to reduce crime involves a combination of resident feedback, local authority assessment, and strategic investment. Currently, Gravesham has a crime rate of 97.0 incidents per 1,000 residents, slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6. This, coupled with a safety score of 78/100 (compared to a UK average of 79), suggests that enhancing visibility through improved street lighting could contribute to a noticeable improvement in perceived and actual safety.
The first step typically involves identifying areas with inadequate lighting. This can be achieved through resident reports – consistently reporting faulty or insufficient lighting to Gravesham Borough Council is crucial. Many councils have online reporting tools or phone lines specifically for this purpose. These reports trigger an assessment by the council's highways or lighting department.
Following a report, a site visit is usually conducted to evaluate the existing lighting. Factors considered include light intensity, coverage, and the type of lighting currently installed. Modern LED lighting is often favoured due to its energy efficiency and brighter, more consistent illumination. The council will then prioritize areas for improvement based on factors like crime statistics, reported incidents, and the overall risk assessment.
Budget allocation plays a significant role. Improving street lighting requires financial investment, and councils often have to balance competing priorities. Demonstrating a clear link between poor lighting and increased crime, through data and community feedback, can strengthen the case for allocating resources to lighting upgrades. Residents can actively participate in local council meetings and consultations to advocate for these improvements.
Finally, the installation process itself follows procurement procedures. Once a contractor is selected, the work is scheduled, and residents are usually notified in advance. Regular maintenance is also essential to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the lighting. The population of Gravesham is 110,671, so the impact of targeted lighting improvements can be significant.