I TAKE issue with Nick Johnson's claim that lighting reduces crime (Letters, March 22).
It is to be commended that the installation of better directed, less wasteful lighting is on the agenda. However, to assert that lights reduce crime is unsound.
To the best of my knowledge, it has never been shown by any independent, peer-reviewed study that extra lights effect a reduction in crime - they appear to make no difference at all!
If anything, it is suggested by some studies that additional lights may increase crime levels.
Is Mr Johnson repeating the tired urban myth that lights reduce crime? Or has he evidence to back up that claim?
By all means install lighting for the right reasons, like safety, economy, and so forth. But, please don't use more lights equal reduced crime, there is no proof.
DEREK HASELDEN, Sholing, Southampton.
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