Political parties on Canvey Island have put aside their differences of opinion in an effort to persuade Essex County Council to re-consider proposals that could see street lights in the area switched off between Midnight and 5am in the morning.

Conservative County Councillor Ray Howard has long campaigned for Canvey to be given special dispensation on this issue in consideration of the fuel storage facilities positioned on the Island.

Islander and Canvey Conservative Chairman, Pat Haunts said “I am delighted that the Political Parties on Canvey Island are working together  to support Ray Howards iniative because turning off the lights at midnight could cost lives if there was an emergency at the storage plants."

"We appreciate that there are both financial and environmental benefits to the proposal but the safety of residents and motorists should outweigh those considerations."

Local Conservatives have set up an on-line petition at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/keep-canvey-bright for residents to give their support.