A national campaign group has backed proposals to black out roads across Telford in an attempt by council bosses to make a saving of £76,000 a year.

The Campaign for Dark Skies (CfDS) has rallied behind bosses at Telford & Wrekin Council who want to switch off 1,350 street lights on six A roads from midnight to 5.30am under the cost-cutting proposals.

The roads being considered are all within Telford’s urban area and include the A442 Eastern Primary, A4169 Ironbridge bypass, A464 Hollinswood interchange, A5223 Wellington Road in Oakengates, A518 Newport to Stafford road and the A5.

The council claims the move would result in a saving of £76,000-a-year from its £1 million lighting budget and help reduce carbon emissions.

Today a campaigner from CfDS, Paul White, from Madeley, said: “I and the CfDS would fully support any move to sensible lighting – it saves energy and money.”

CfDS works to persuade local councils to switch off street lights and if necessary, use direct lighting which only shines on the road.

The group argues against the use of inefficient outdoor lighting, which it says is a waste of money, energy and ruins the night sky.

Mr White added: “Shropshire has an unusually good sky in places, anything that can be done to help is to be welcomed.

“It is tragic that people cannot look up and see what’s up there, it’s something that our children shouldn’t be denied – the jewel box of stars in a black velvet sky replaced by a brown-orange glow and a couple of dots, it’s hardly inspiring.

“Then there’s the effect on wildlife. Around here we get birds desperately singing all night under the impression that it’s dawn.”

The council’s plans, revealed on Saturday, sparked a debate among readers of the Shropshire Star, which saw dozens commenting favourably on the website.

Councillor Adrian Lawrence said: “It is heartening to hear that borough residents and green organisations are supportive of the idea.”

By Jason Lavan