I am writing to formally petition both Norfolk County Council and South Norfolk Council for the enhancement of street lighting in Thurton, a matter of significant importance to the residents and visitors of our village.

Current Street Lighting Coverage

Currently, Thurton benefits from street lighting along the main A146 A road between Norwich and Lowestoft, which is understandably necessary due to the heavy traffic on this major route. Additionally, there is street lighting down 'The Meadows.' However, several critical areas within the village remain inadequately lit, posing safety concerns and inconvenience to the community.

Areas Needing Street Lighting

1. Vale Road: This primary road services numerous council houses and is a main link road to 'The Meadows.' Despite its importance, there is a complete absence of street lighting on Vale Road.

2. Ashby Road: Thurton Primary School is situated on Ashby Road. While the school has its own lighting in the car park, this is insufficient for the surrounding area. The entire length of Ashby Road, including up to the postbox, lacks street lighting. This is a major concern for parents, children, and school staff, particularly during the winter months when it gets dark early.

3. The Street and Loddon Road: These roads, especially outside the George and Dragon Pub and up to the postbox, are also devoid of street lighting. Both Ashby Road and Loddon Road have life-saving defibrillators and postboxes, yet the lack of adequate lighting is a significant oversight that compromises the accessibility and safety of these vital public amenities.

4. St Georges Close, Park Close, St Marys Road, and Foxglove Close: These roads are essential parts of our village infrastructure, yet they lack proper street lighting, further contributing to the overall inadequacy of lighting in Thurton.

Safety and Demographic Considerations

According to data from the 2021 Census, over a third of Thurton's population is over the age of 64. This demographic is particularly vulnerable to the dangers posed by poorly lit streets. Improved street lighting is essential for their safety and mobility.

Community Events

The Village Hall in Thurton hosts various events, including meetings of the Women's Institute and other community gatherings that often run late into the evening. During winter, darkness sets in as early as 4 PM, affecting events that conclude around 5 or 6 PM. Adequate street lighting would greatly enhance the safety and convenience for attendees, particularly those who walk to these events.

Personal and Student Concerns

I also wish to highlight a personal concern: my grandmother recently moved into the village. Like many individuals of her generation, she is not very proficient with modern technology and does not feel comfortable using her phone torch. She, along with other elderly residents, should not have to carry a physical torch while navigating the village after dark.

As a student, I frequently catch the bus as early as 7:25 AM. In the winter months, it can still be pitch dark at this time. While my walk to the A146 from my house is relatively short, other students and people traveling to work who live down Foxglove Close or St Marys Road have a longer distance to cover, over 1,500 feet.

Suggested Lighting Schedule

The lighting would not need to be on 24/7. However, sufficient lighting between the hours of 4 PM to midnight, and 6 AM to 8 AM would be immensely beneficial for everyone.

Conclusion

In light of the above points, I urge the Council to consider the installation of street lighting on Vale Road, Ashby Road, The Street, Loddon Road, St Georges Close, Park Close, St Marys Road, and Foxglove Close. This initiative will significantly improve safety, accessibility, and quality of life for all residents and visitors of Thurton.