STREET lights will NOT be switched off across Thurrock after midnight, it has been confirmed.

Councillor Andy Smith, who’s in charge of planning, regeneration and transport, told the last full council meeting Thurrock had no plans to plunge the borough into darkness.

It will, therefore, not be following the lead of Essex County Council.

Lights have gone out in many areas, including parts of Basildon, Billericay, Braintree and Rochford, between midnight and 5am, to save money, sparking outrage from residents.

Answering a question from fellow councillor Michael Stone, Mr Smith said: “We will not be doing it.

“There have been frightening results because of it, including an increase in crime.

“We’re fortunate that we’re not run by Essex County Council, as we’d be in the dark by now. We’ll be keeping our lights on.”