TO PROMOTE safer running for women at night, the council has upgraded the athletics track at a BCP leisure centre.

Ashdown Leisure Centre, operated by BCP Leisure, has undergone significant improvements to encourage more people to use the track.

These include new energy-efficient LED lighting to the track, which is available for public use during the centre's opening hours.

Sean Gabriel, BCP Leisure's general manager, who oversees Ashdown Leisure Centre, praised the upgrades.

He said: "I think the crucial thing here is that we provide a space where people have more choice.

"Especially in the evenings when it is dark by the time people have got home from work, there will be a safe, controlled and well-lit area for people to run."

(Image: NQ) This project was introduced as a part of a significant investment in leisure facilities after BCP Council took over the management of three centres in October.

The development at Ashdown Leisure Centre includes upgrades to the athletics track's viewing area and CCTV and improvements to the gym facilities. Sean added that plans are in place to enhance the astroturf, aiming to improve safety for hockey players.

Cllr Richard Herrett, portfolio holder for destination, leisure, and commercial operations, said: "The improvements will definitely help people feel safer, especially women, who can now run without feeling like they need to be looking over their shoulder.

"It's fantastic to have the opportunity to exercise outdoors, even after dark.

"The track is not only a safe space for women but also makes running easier as people will be able to easily see where they are going.

"There's no risk of tripping over tree stumps or rocks, and the surface is very bouncy."

BCP Council said it is committed to combating violence against women and girls and have recently become White Ribbon accredited.

White Ribbon is the UK's leading charity in helping men and boys to change their negative and damaging behaviours, ultimately helping to tackle violence against women and girls.

Councillor Kieron Wilson, portfolio holder for housing and regulatory services at BCP Council, said: "Gaining White Ribbon accreditation is a positive step and a clear message that there is no place in our communities for violence against women and girls.

"I strongly believe that becoming White Ribbon accredited will support BCP Council in tackling this issue; helping to educate people, improve behaviours and raise awareness."