A local resident has created a petition to persuade the council to install lights in Fairfield Recreation Ground.

 Speaking about why he created the petition, Giampiero Leonardi told Kingston Nub News: "I believe lighting is necessary, and I feel the area is too dark at night.

"I have heard concerns from others and can see potential safety risks considering especially the park is next to the St Joseph school and nursery.

"Also, the lack of lighting makes it less welcoming for people who want to use the space in the evenings, whether for walking, exercising, or commuting.

"Proper lighting can enhance safety, making the space feel more secure for the community, especially during darker months.

He continued: "Solar-powered lights are a sustainable solution that aligns with eco-friendly values, reducing the environmental impact while increasing visibility.

"This not only benefits locals but also encourages more people to use the green space in a safe, accessible way.

"Improved lighting would make Fairfield Ground a more inclusive space for all ages, offering a place for people to gather, exercise, and enjoy year-round.

"By opting for solar power, the initiative promotes renewable energy, which supports both community safety and environmental sustainability."

The petition, which is addressed to Kingston Council, states several reasons why lights should be installed at Fairfield.

However, in response to a Facebook post about the petition, several residents have expressed their opposition to the installation of lights at Fairfield.

One resident commented: "I don't agree with lighting in any parks, it disturbs bats."

Another said: "There's already sufficient lighting on the main path through the Fairfield. Not one I'll be signing, sorry."

"Sounds really good in principle and have questioned this before," said another.

"However, the implementation of a solar powered lighting scheme in the Fairfield is largely impractical, owing to any lighting adorning the exterior pathway would be shaded by overhanging trees and the lack of sunlight hours during winter.

"Instead, a project lighting these areas of the park would require significant portions of the park to be dug up for electrical lines to be installed.

"Simultaneously, residents would also demand additional maintenance to the pathways around the exterior of the sports grounds.

"Furthermore, there exists concerns of the impact additional lighting would place upon wildlife such as bats (and they do exist) and light pollution in neighbouring properties.

"Ultimately, given the Council scrapped the local tree planting scheme to save £135,000 this year, a capital project of this scope/nature is beyond the financial capacity of the Council, which is increasingly facing bankruptcy due to poor leadership decisions."

The petition currently has 31 signatures.

You can view the full petition here.