Council - no plans to enhance Blackburn Path lighting

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council was responding after Sinn Fein Councillor Brenda Chivers called for action to make people using the Blackburn Path feel safe after it emerged a young woman had been sexually assaulted there earlier this month.

When asked if Council has plans to improve the lighting, a spokesperson said: “The lights in question belong to Council. Following representations, they were added to approximately three years ago to improve the coverage of light.

“The lights in this area are continually subject to vandalism and repairs are carried out as and when required.

“Council is not aware of any current issues with the lights.

“The lighting along this path is deemed to be adequate and there are no plans to further enhance the lighting in this location.”

Colr. Chivers, a former mayor of Limavady, said people need to feel safe.

While disappointed Council had no plans to enhance the lighting in the area, she vowed to continue campaigning on the issue.

“There have been a number of incidents of crime in the Blackburn Path area and I will continue to campaign to have street lighting improved so people using the area feel safe,” she said.

Police say the recent sexual assault occurred sometime between 12.30 am-1am on Sunday, June 5, when a 21-year-old female was attacked by a man while walking along the Blackburn Path.”

Detective Inspector Lynne Knox said: “This young woman has been through a traumatic ordeal and we are keen to trace anyone who can assist our investigation in any way.

“The suspect is described as around 30 to 35 years old with a local accent, 6’ 1” tall with black hair and a short dark beard.

I would appeal to anyone who saw a man matching this description in the Blackburn Path or Main Street areas to contact police on 101.”