New lighting is set to be installed at Lowlands Recreation Ground near Harrow on the Hill station after reports of anti-social behaviour and harassment affecting local residents, students, and staff.
Labour Councillors from Greenhill and Harrow on the Hill wards secured funding through the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) after running a petition that gathered over 230 signatures from residents and Harrow College students and staff.
The move follows calls from Harrow College for more action to improve safety in the area. While the Council did not approve CCTV or lighting directly, ward Councillors applied for funding themselves to address the issue.
The installation is planned to be completed by September.
Clive Hodge, Principal of Harrow College, said: “Concerned about safety at night, our students took the lead in raising issues about Lowlands Recreation Ground. Their voices sparked meaningful discussions and action with local ward Councillors, with our successful campaign resulting in lighting currently being installed—an important step toward making the park safer after dark.
“We’re incredibly proud of our students for championing this cause and working hand-in-hand with the local community to make a difference. I would also like to take this opportunity to say special thanks to local Greenhill and Harrow on the Hill ward Councillors Aneka Shah-Levy and Stephen Hickman for spearheading these efforts to reduce incidents of harassment and anti-social behaviour in Lowlands.”
Cllr Aneka Shah-Levy said: “I was thrilled to be able to help residents, students and staff that frequently walk across Lowlands recreation ground after dark. As an ex-student of the College, I understand how important feeling safe in the area is and I would like to thank all those who got involved for getting this important work off the ground.”
The lighting is expected to provide better visibility in the park and support efforts to improve safety for everyone using the space after dark.
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