Petition to illuminate Guildford over safety fears

A plea to improve CCTV and street lights in Guildford comes after an alleged sexual assault

Surrey residents are calling for more CCTV and streetlights due to fears over safety.

As well as appealing for brighter streets, the petition hopes to improve the safety of the county, following an alleged sexual assault in February.

The Illuminate Guildford petition, started by Claire Nolan, has gained more than 1000 signatures.

It says more lights would ensure that walking home would no longer be "shrouded in darkness and fear".

In light of a report of a recent sexual assault on the evening of 29 February, Ms Nolan said the incident served as "a stark reminder of the pressing need for increased visibility and CCTV" in Guildford.

The petition states: "A well-lit community breeds positive behaviours, encouraging further improvements and initiatives that can collectively impact crime rates."

The enforcement of CCTV would act as a deterrent against criminal activity, the petition added.

Police take reports 'extremely seriously'

Surrey Police said the investigation into the sexual assault in an alleyway off The Chase, Guildford is ongoing.

No arrests have been made.

Detective Inspector, Heather Jenkins said: “All reports of this nature are taken extremely seriously and an investigation is underway to establish what happened.

"This includes conducting house to house enquiries in the area and checking CCTV.

"At this time I would ask if you saw anyone acting suspiciously in this area, or have information that could be relevant, please contact us as soon as possible.”

The victim is being appropriately supported by a specially trained Sexual Offences Liaison Officers, Surrey Police reported.