Calls for more street lighting in Cheltenham
Locals hope it'll help deter crime in the area
Hundreds of people are calling for more public lighting to deter crime in Cheltenham.
A petition signed by more than 820 people was handed into Cheltenham Borough Council this week.
The petition, organised by Rich Newman, calls for more lighting in Sandford Park.
Mr Newman told the council meeting on 21st February that many of those who signed the petition want peace of mind while walking after dark.
He explained there are studies that show that an increase in lighting leads to a decrease in crime rates in urban areas.
"People want to feel safer," Mr Newman said.
"We are all well aware there is already partial lighting in some areas of Sandford Park.
"What we are specifically asking for is light placed along the southern pathway on the eastern side of College Road and the unlit pathways in the north on the eastern side to be completed.
"On the western side of College Road we are aware there are only two lights there already.
"Both of these are insufficient and often covered by trees and they are probably older than me.
"We would like to see them improved and like lights to be placed throughout all the pathways including the two paved areas off London Road and Bath Road.
"We would like the council to do this as soon as possible."
Mayor Steve Harvey (LD, Charlton Park) said the petition will be shared with the relevant cabinet member and it will be debated by the council as soon as possible.