A controversial decision to turn the street lights out in Epping Forest will go ahead at the proposed times, despite widespread objection.

Earlier this year, when parish and town councils were consulted, many requested that the lights were turned out 30 minutes after the last Tube arrives at the nearest station.

However, in a final report to Cllr Rodney Bass at Essex County Council, these pleas have been ignored.

Keith Tovee, Essex County Council's street lighting manager has recommended that street lighting goes out between midnight and 5am.

The lights in Epping Forest will be turned out under the Part night lighting scheme from December 9.

Exemptions include the lighting of remote footpaths, in town centres, around areas of heavy traffic, and places where police can prove there would be an increase in crime without lighting.