A council work group heard how misconceptions about safety are impacting a town’s nightlife.

The task group was formed by Luton Borough Council (LBC) to investigate and offer recommendations on how to revitalise the area’s nightlife while also making the environment safer for residents and visitors.

Labour councillor Mahmood Hussain stated that 98% of venues had little or no customers after 22:00 and asked for “dramatic” action to keep the town viable and prospering.

He stated: “There is a sense that the town is unsafe, despite the fact that we went around it after 22:00 and felt no fear in any shape or form.

“We need visible policing.” According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the Farley councillor also advised that licensing staff allow facilities like as cafes to stay open for an hour longer in order to increase foot traffic.

According to Liberal Democrat Stopsley councillor Nigel Marshall, 90% of residents in his ward have a “incorrect perception that our town centre isn’t a safe place to be”.

He stated that changing this would be “an enormous task” that “will not happen overnight, as changing people’s perceptions is difficult.”

Corey Albone, LBC’s interim head of culture and creative, agreed that “that’s an ongoing challenge we face and a big focus for the town centre task force.” He stated that while police activity has increased during the summer, improving public image will take time.

The most difficult problem is persuading those who are unwilling to visit the area to witness what the changes are like,” he remarked.

The group will review a final report on November 27, which will then be discussed by LBC’s executive in January.

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