A CAMPAIGNER has urged Colchester Council to ensure street lights are kept on all night in parts of the town centre.

Mark Goacher's call for action comes after a spate of anti-social behaviour in the Short Wyre Street, Eld Lane and Sir Isaac's Walk areas.

He said: "The glass in the doors of several café’s have been smashed in several times and boarding has been removed from an empty shop in what looked like an attempted break in."

Mr Goacher has also requested all-night lighting for the Dutch Quarter after residents raised concerns with him and Green Party colleagues.

He added: "Our recent residents' survey has highlighted concerns from residents about a perceived increase in drug dealing in the area and also people using car parking areas and walkways around West Stockwell Street as toilet facilities.

"I've requested that the street lights be kept on all night in this area in order to deter this behaviour and that the County Council be asked to do this.

"It seems to be a relatively cost effective way to deter crime and anti-social behaviour in targeted areas, especially if LED lighting is used."

Essex County Council has responsibility for street lighting in Colchester but Mr Goacher wants Colchester Council to make the request.

Mr Goacher is the Green Party's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Colchester.