Police will soon have the power to brighten streetlights around Torquay Harbour to help make the area safer in the evenings.

The £21,000 scheme, initiated by the force, involves replacing several columns and all lanterns in Torwood Street, The Strand, and Cary Parade.

The new technology means that the lights can be increased from 250 watts to 400 watts at times when trouble is expected, particularly as people leave pubs and clubs at night.

The hope is that people will feel safer because of the extra light and police will benefit from the increased visibility and effectiveness of the CCTV cameras.

The scheme, developed in partnership with Torbay Council, is part of a wider 'safer clubbing' programme aimed at making the pubs and clubs of Torbay a safer place.

Torbay police commander, Chief Inspector Carl Langley, who is responsible for the development of the 'safer clubbing' initiative, said: 'I am delighted to have been able to work with Torbay Council on this project, they have turned our ideas into reality.

'The vastly improved lighting is aimed at complementing other parts of the 'safer clubbing' scheme. They include the drug testing machine launched last year and the funding for a new CCTV camera in Torwood Street.

'The police, Torbay Council and the licensees of Torbay want people to enjoy the nightlife offered by the Bay safely. We will have the ability, via the council control room, to raise the lighting levels at certain times and to meet specific needs.'

Councillor Colin Charlwood, executive member for Environment Services, said: 'The harbour area is a busy place, particularly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.

'It is important that we improve lighting, not only for road users and other members of the public but also to help the police, licensees and other business people. The improved lighting will also further enhance the attractiveness of the harbour area.'

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