News from Brent Labour

Stonebridge left in the dark after Lib Dems cut lighting budget

Poor lighting can lead to more street crime.

The Leader of Brent Council’s Labour Opposition, Cllr Ann M John, OBE, who represents Stonebridge Ward has written to the Chief Executive and Director of Environment about the poor quality of street lighting in Stonebridge in general and Sapphire Road in particular. Cllr John has been lobbied by Hillside Housing Association, which has repeatedly contacted the Council about the poor quality of street lighting only to be told that, whilst the Council accepts that the lighting is inadequate there is no money in the budget to upgrade it.

Meanwhile, Cllr John had first-hand experience of the effects of poor street lighting when she tripped on a poorly lit and uneven pavement outside the Hillside Hub on Monday 8 March and broke her wrist. She is now unable to drive and will have her arm in a sling for at least six weeks.

Councillor John said:

“The only people who benefit from cuts in the street lighting budget are pickpockets. Meanwhile, the Council is paying out over 30% more in claims from people like me who sustain injuries as a result of broken pavements, pot holes and poorly lit streets. If the Lib Dems spent less money on consultants and more money on basic services, our streets would be much safer.”