Bright idea means safer streets, Shepparton News, Shepparton VIC

Fitness in Shepparton just became brighter and safer. After much discussion about the visibility around the Aquamoves carpark, 28 new streetlights, including added lighting around the building, was unveiled yesterday. The new lights were made possible because of a $231 000 Victorian Government crime prevention grant given to Greater Shepparton City Council to improve the visibility along Tom Collins Dve. State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes, who spoke at the opening yesterday, said the transformation had improved visibility, which in turn would help to reduce the risk of crime and anti-social behaviour. Almost 1700 people visit Aquamoves every day, and Ms Symes said this new lighting would ensure that visitors could continue to enjoy the facility and feel safe going to and from the carpark. Council Projects Peter Elshaug said strong feedback was received from staff at Aquamoves, the community and Victoria Police, who indicated that carpark safety was an area that needed addressing. Mr Elshaug said the lack of visibility, especially outside of daylight savings periods, had the potential to impact the times of day members were using the facilities. Now this will hopefully promote legitimate use (of the area), he said. He said the new lighting would improve the safety and, possibly more importantly, the perceived safety of the area. Ms Symes said it was just as important to make the area safer for staff as it was for patrons. This work has improved visibility, boosting safety in the carpark and nearby areas, including the Victoria Lake precinct, Ms Symes said. Making sure the carpark is safe is huge for any community, Im happy to support it. Caption Text: Everything is illuminated: City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Dinny Adem and State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes in the newly-lit Aquamoves carpark.