Lighting For Tangier Green In The Winter

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that Richmond Council please provide sufficient lighting on the playground at Tangier Green so that the young children for whom it is intended (the under 10’s) can safely use it after school during the winter months when it becomes dark very early. We understand the sensitivities around light pollution and its effect on people and wildlife alike, but we feel that this must be weighed against the health and well-being benefits of outdoor play for young children.

Childhood obesity is a rising problem. Outdoor play is a key way to deal with the problem. Mental ill-health among our children is a difficult challenge with few resources to combat it. Surely prevention is better than cure? Finally, after school clubs and activities cost money. With the Cost of Living crisis still very much present for many of our neighbours, keeping families from fully utilising a free recreation amenity misses the opportunity to support the well-being of our community.

With the support of our local North Richmond councillors, we present this petition to you with respect and faith that you will look at our request with sympathy and compassion.