SWANAGE residents are not taking a shine to new, brighter LED streetlights near their homes.

Several say the light from the columns is too bright and harsh and they should be toned down.

Those living close to Durlston Country Park are said by Swanage councillor, Bill Trite, to be especially peeved because they fear the new lights will interfere with the Dark Skies Discovery Site at the country park – which is also part of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, now known as a National Landscape.

Cllr Trite told Dorset councillors that he would like to see an investigation into what some residents describe as “an intrusive nuisance” from the new lights – and for them to be changed, if the specification is wrong.

Highways and environment portfolio holder Cllr Ray Bryan said he would asked the corporate director responsible for a review, which he expected to happen quickly, and if the lights were not suitable to consider changing them.