From easier navigation to improved lighting, Bolton Council is investing in a safer town centre for residents, workers and visitors.
The new installations, including anti-crime measures and life-saving emergency equipment, are part of the town’s wider ongoing regeneration.
Working with industry experts Arup the council carried out a thorough review of street lighting across the town centre and conducted a public survey.
Based on this feedback the council is in the process of installing a new lighting network, designed to make the centre feel safer and more welcoming at night.
As well as brighter streets supporting the night-time economy, the new network will also shine a light on Bolton’s heritage landmarks like the town hall and Le Mans Crescent.
New display units, known as totems, have been installed across the town centre featuring both a map of the area and digital screens showing important information.
The totems are designed to help people unfamiliar with the town centre to navigate the area quickly and safely, a concept know as wayfinding.
Both the lighting and wayfinding projects were funded by the government’s Local Authority Flexible Grant scheme.
The council has also invested in five new public defibrillator units installed across the town centre, with an additional unit to be added at Elizebeth Park.
Council staff and other town centre employees will be trained on how to use the potentially life-saving equipment.
The town centre’s CCTV network is also being extended as part of ongoing work to prevent and deter crime.
An additional nine cameras have already been added with further investment from the Pride in Place Impact Fund to extend further into Queens Park.
Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Nick Peel, said:
“Through our regeneration work, our economic growth plans and our Visitor Economy Strategy more people than ever are coming to visit, work and live in Bolton.
“Having a welcoming town centre that is both well-lit and easy to navigate is playing a huge part in that work.
“Our town centre has already been transformed by developments like Moor Lane and Deansgate Gardens, with Crompton Place and Church Wharf now progressing.
“But regeneration goes beyond these major building schemes, and we recognise how important it is that our public spaces are safe and secure for everyone.”