Twickenham Green will benefit from permanently improved lighting following a successful year-long pilot that earned strong support from the community and local police.

Richmond Council announced yesterday (Thursday, 11 December) that motion- and daylight-sensor LED lights will be installed along the central path of the green.

The lights brighten when movement is detected and dim during quieter periods, offering greater visibility while remaining energy-efficient and minimising ecological impact, the Council says.

In addition, lighting has been fine-tuned and bat boxes introduced to support local wildlife.

Councillor Katie Mansfield, Richmond Council's White Ribbon Champion, said: "This decision shows we've listened to and acted upon community concerns about the lack of lighting on the green.

"While we will never forget the tragic death of Amelie Delagrange that prompted this work, our focus is on giving everyone confidence to use the park – particularly women and girls – and making these spaces welcoming, inclusive and safe for all."

Richmond Council continues to encourage people travelling or walking after dark to use well-lit public pathways and avoid open spaces as shortcuts, as part of its wider efforts to improve safety across the borough.

Twickenham Green, one of Richmond's most used parks, will now benefit from permanent improved lighting (credit: Richmond Council).

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Cllr Mansfield added that the new lighting is a "tangible and visible step" that sits alongside the borough-wide Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy, launched in October.

The strategy provides "a comprehensive approach to ensuring stronger local action to support and empower women and girls in the community".

While Richmond upon Thames remains one of London's safest boroughs, the Council says it will continue to prioritise action on VAWG through initiatives such as awareness campaigns, White Ribbon walks, targeted training, specialist support services, and partnerships with local organisations.

"No level of violence against women and girls is acceptable. That's why we are strengthening local action to support and empower those at risk," added Cllr Mansfield.

"Our goal is to ensure the borough is a place where everyone, including women and girls, feels safe."

The permanent lighting follows consultation with residents and local police, who supported the scheme as a practical measure to improve visibility on the green.

The Council will continue to monitor its effectiveness to ensure Twickenham Green remains a safe, accessible and welcoming space for everyone.

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