PARKS and graveyards across the borough will now not be left unlocked overnight as the council reverse cost-cutting measures following sustained pressure from Harrow Observer readers.

The Independent Labour administration have responded to calls for them to scrap the plan to leave parks, graveyards and open spaces across Harrow unlocked in a bid to annually save £80,000.

Observer readers have warned that this will increase anti-social behaviour and vandalism, but the news now comes as a relief, and the council have received numerous petitions protesting the plan.

Campaigner Mic Sayer, who organised a demonstration outside of the cabinet meeting on Thursday, said: "I am very relived because everyone I spoke to were very concerned. They were all saying this is a silly idea and it would have encouraged anti-social behaviour.

"Good on them. They've seen sense."

Jean Linfield, neighbourhood champion for Hereford Gardens, said: "I thought they were entrenched on the idea. It would have made everyone's life a misery but today is a happy day."

The U-turn comes as the Independent Labour administration is subject to a vote of no confidence at a council meeting this coming Monday.

Harrow Council's Independent Labour portfolio holder for environment and community safety, Councillor Asad Omar, said: "This is yet again a clear example of the current administration listening to the people of Harrow. Lots of people have come forward since our original consultation and, in taking these views on board, we have decided not to progress with this proposal.

"Further to my decision to reverse the removal of dog waste bins by the previous administration, this proves that people’s views are heard in this administration."