IT IS “only a matter of time” before a serious crime is committed along a city centre pathway suffering from a lack of operating street lights, residents have warned.

The route running alongside the River Usk in Newport hosts a variety of businesses and beautiful scenery, attracting flocks of people every day.

But for Georgina Berry, who lives in Amber Close, the lack of street lights operating along the path is a serious concern.

(Video: Walking along the riverside path in almost complete darkness. Credit: Georgina Berry)

She said only a handful of street lights are working on the route, which stretches from The Pod all the way to George Street Bridge.

South Wales Argus:

The pathway which is in darkness

"There must be about 20 to 30 lights along the pathway," she said.

"And there can only be a maximum of five which are turned on. This is very shocking.

"When you have to walk along there at night it is quite frightening. I live very near the pathway and I feel frightened when walking along there at night.

"Some people have no choice but to come this way to get to their house."

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The 26-year-old, who walks along the path daily, fears that unless more street lights are turned on at night it is only a "matter of time" until a crime is carried out.

She said: "There are sexual crimes and assaults that go on in this area. And without lights it makes it more likely to happen.

"I want the lights turned back on. At times you cannot see people who are approaching you. This is one of the best areas of Newport.

"If I do not feel safe when walking along there, then what do other people feel."

Resident, Shelley Denner, also expressed her concerns, saying: "I do not feel safe walking along the pathway.

"This is supposed to be a a wonderful area to come and visit. But more lights need to be turned on to make this so.

"When the businesses in Friars Walk close for the night it is pitch black along the pathway."

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And another resident, Julian Denner, added: "More street lights need to be turned on as soon as possible.

"If more lights are turned on then a serious crime will not happen."

A spokeswoman from Newport City Council said: "Lighting on the path alongside the River Usk from The Pod to George Street Bridge is currently under review and we are investigating the faults and costs to return the boardwalk lighting to full working order."