While Enfield already had a number of north-south cycle routes, the east-west connectivity remained poor, limiting access between existing cycle facilities. A particularly critical section was through Bush Hill Park, where a lack of adequate lighting posed safety concerns, especially during evening hours. The unlit path discouraged use by both pedestrians and cyclists and diminished the effectiveness of the route as a continuous, accessible travel corridor.

To resolve this, Enfield Council included lighting improvements as part of the broader path upgrade through Bush Hill Park and DFL were on hand to create a fit-for-purpose lighting design.

DFL reviewed the current pathway lighting by carrying out a detailed Site Survey. We reviewed and noted all possible conflicts within the existing landscape compared to a preliminary design that was generated. Items noted in relation to the possible conflicts in the area included:

- Confirmation of tree locations, height, and canopy width

- Identification of possible hazards such as drainage or overhead electricity cables

- Identification of existing feeder pillar locations

- Confirmation that proposed columns are not on top of stats.

This information was then used to help model the proposed lighting design.

Brand new lighting columns were installed along the western side of the park, from the Cross Road entrance to the western entrance on Lincoln Road. The lighting upgrades were completed in June 2024, coinciding with the opening of the newly surfaced path to the public.

The completed lighting works have significantly improved safety and accessibility along the Bush Hill Park section of the cycle route. This transformation supports the council’s goal of promoting active travel and has encouraged more evening and year-round use of the path by cyclists and pedestrians. DFL were sure to create a Cycle Path Lighting Design that created the right amount of lighting, whilst minimising any disruption to habitats of nearby wildlife.

Enfield Council has established a commitment to integrating biodiversity considerations into its planning and development processes, as outlined in their Biodiversity Action Plan and Blue and Green Strategy, so DFL were sure to include this element, as always.

The Cycle Path has made the path a viable alternative to car travel, allows safer travel conditions near Bush Hill Park Primary School and marks an important milestone in Enfield’s commitment to delivering sustainable, community-focused transport infrastructure.