Sir - New lights are put up on the forecourt of shops in Atkyns Road, Wood Farm, Oxford (Oxford Mail, December 16). Well done to all city councillors, the council's chief executive Caroline Bull and neighbourhood renewal officer Roger Elkin. But before they take praise, can they please look a little closer at the problem?

City councillor Susan Brown stated that she had been fighting for a long time to get lights.

Surely, as the forecourt belongs to the city council, it was its duty to make it safe in the hours of darkness? So now how about the public road behind the shops? There are no lights on that road, which is the rear access to all the shops and flats, and very dangerous.

As you reported, it is hoped that the lighting will help stop a group of lads gathering around the shops. I hope councillors will also look at the park, and the state it is in, behind the shops.

Two 'bendy bar' goalposts, one end 7ft high, the other end 6ft high -- that's a disadvantage. Only one basketball ring -- that's a disadvantage. Only three -- and they are all out-of-date -- children's items in the fenced-off area, and one open-air shelter. Yes, that's the lot, councillors.

Please look at the other estates. The Wood Farm park is the most rundown in Oxford. Lights are not the only answer -- we need action in the park. Councillors must work with the whole community, not just blame the kids.

PETER BONNEY

Nuffield Road

Wood Farm

Headington

Oxford