One of Tenby's county council representatives is worried about the local authority's proposals to switch-off street lights during the night.

Clr. Michael Williams has written to Pembrokeshire County Council stating that while he agrees with any efforts made towards reducing carbon emissions, he has some concerns with the proposals being put forward in that it appears to be a blanket approach.

In a letter sent this week, he says: "In my constituency, it would appear that entire estates and areas would be without any street lighting after midnight.

"I am concerned that the entire Upper Hill Park, Lady Park, Seascape and Southlands estates, together with the Glebe and other areas, would be in this category.

"There are a very great number of elderly people who live alone in these areas and are presently feeling vulnerable during the hours of darkness; to allow a complete shutting down of all streetlights in these areas would serve only to increase their feeling of isolation."

He continued: "Might I suggest a phased reduction in these areas depending on public response? 

"I feel it is important that in particular road junctions should be kept illuminated, and other sensitive areas might be considered."

He added: "One argument put forward in support of the reduction of street lighting, is to say that years ago most lights did in fact go off at midnight. I would, however, point out that at that time there was a significant police presence, on foot in the town. Presently, this is not the case, with any police being visible a rare occasion."

And he stressed: "It is of the greatest importance that a comprehensive public consultation is carried out, and any concerns that are expressed are taken onto account."

Footnote: Pembrokeshire County Council is currently finalising the consultation on the proposal of reducing street lighting across the county in a bid to cut down carbon emissions.

It is proposed that non-core street lighting installations will be extinguished between 12 am and 5.30 am.

The proposals will not affect town centres where there are late-night facilities such as night clubs, public houses and food outlets.

Detailed schedules have been issued to town and community councils on specific proposals.

Certain community areas identified by the Community Safety Partnership are also being reviewed further at this time.

Trunk roads which are not operated by the county council will not be affected by the proposal.