Hounslow Council’s plan to dim street lights to save money faces opposition due to safety concerns and budget issues.
The council states that safety is their priority and they will follow police advice. However, some people disagree with the plan, thinking it is not safe. A petition asking the council to rethink has over 450 signatures so far.
One councillor calls the plan mismanagement, saying public safety should come first. A resident thinks the plan is “total madness” and worries about rising crime, especially regarding women’s safety, adding that people will feel unsafe.
The council says it is reviewing lighting efficiency and will carefully consider all options. Key people can give feedback, and the impact of decisions will be fully assessed.
The council will use £28 million from reserves, with half supporting budget plans and the other half “balancing risk.” The council calls this a “rainy day”.
The council will also raise taxes and cut some services. Band D homes pay £1991 council tax now, but it will soon be about £2090. Further, the council will cut council tax support, and most working people will pay something, while pensioners are not affected by these changes.
The council will revise parking charges, with polluting vehicles paying more, potentially generating £400,000, as Hounslow already uses this system.
Fines for some offences will increase, with fly-tipping potentially costing £1,000 now, previously capped at £400. Other waste offences can cost up to £600.
Littering fines will also rise significantly, to a maximum of £500, and this should bring in an extra £276,000.
The council plans to spend £13.7 million on adult care, covering daily support, therapy, and help to people joining social events. The council will also keep paying the London Living Wage, which will help the social care workforce. Funding will also aid healthcare pressures and assist the local NHS.