HAMPSTEAD residents are celebrating after winning approval for new street lighting to improve safety. More than 200 people in Goldhurst Terrace and Aberdare Gardens signed a petition calling for the lights to be improved. Now Camden Council has confirmed

HAMPSTEAD residents are celebrating after winning approval for new street lighting to improve safety.

More than 200 people in Goldhurst Terrace and Aberdare Gardens signed a petition calling for the lights to be improved.

Now Camden Council has confirmed new white lights will be in place in both roads by May.

Campaigner organiser and Goldhurst Terrace resident Tony Koutsoumbos said: "There is not a massive crimewave through here - but people I have spoken to do feel unsafe especially those with children.

"Some people even come home early from work to walk their children home from school.

"I am very glad I started the petition and I was enthusiastic something would be done from the beginning. Everyone is obviously very pleased."

Sue Estermann, chairwoman of residents' group Crash, said: "For as long as I can remember, the issue of poor street lighting in the Gardens area has been raised repeatedly at both our meetings and Swiss Cottage safer neighbourhood meetings.

"I am glad the council is now prepared to give this matter serious attention and look forward to feeling safer in the near future as a result of improved lighting.