NOW let us decide whether our street lights should be on or off...that’s the message from the new coalition running Brentwood Council.

It comes after the new administration, made up of the Lib Dems, Brentwood First, Labour and independent councillor Roger Keeble, officially took over the reins at the town hall last week.

Lights were switched off in many of the borough’s roads in February between midnight and 5am.

Those in charge at the council now want to see decisions that affect Brentwood made in the borough - not at county hall.

David Kendall, Lib Dem borough councillor and county councillor, said: “I’m a great believer in devolution of power and bringing it back to a local level.

“Members of this accord have major concerns over part night lighting.

“I’m going to ask to meet with councillor Rodney Bass (in charge of highways at County Hall) to discuss issues in Brentwood with him and any potential options for the borough to opt out.

“If there was a cost involved that would be down to the local council.

“We’re keen to enter into constructive dialogue with the county council and hope there might be a more flexible approach.”