STREET lights will be turned on early in new residential estates in an effort to stop vandals causing damage under the cover of darkness.
Lights were previously not switched on until houses were under construction but Cardinia Shire Council has supported a policy change to activate the lights as soon as power is connected to new subdivisions.
The move was prompted by concerns about safety and security.
Theft from building sites and vandalism in new residential areas is an increasing problem.
There are also concerns about delays of two or three months before requests for streetlights to be activated were acted upon.
Councillor Brett Owen said improved lighting could only be a good thing for council and residents.