Campaigners calling for an end to the switching off of street lights overnight have said a decision to cut the hours of darkness for commuters does not go far enough.

Essex County Council yesterday confirmed that street lighting in Loughton, Chigwell, Buckhurst Hill and Epping will be turned back on at 5am, rather than 6am, to coincide with public transport.

But the organiser of a petition calling for the policy to be scrapped, which attracted 150 signaturess, said there has been an increase in crime since the switch off was introduced and residents are angry more has not been done.

Vimal Ohrie said: “Politicians in a year leading up to the election need to make themselves look good but we are suffering from crime increases.

“There have been three robberies in my vicinity since I handed in the petition. Why should we suffer for mistakes made by politicians?

“The police station has closed so we need these lights to prevent criminals from lurking in bushes and robbing us.

“We do not feel safe and we are entitled to feel safe, it is our fundamental right.

 “We will continue to pursue this through the Parish council.”

The decision to change the hours of the switch-off was in response to concerns raised by Epping Forest councillors, who argued the loss of light between 1am and 6am was compromising public safety.

Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing said the decision was a “victory for common sense”.

Essex County Council implemented the policy to save money and protect the environment.