A city councillor fears elderly residents could face a “high risk of injury” after street lighting was removed in a Co Down housing estate.
According to the Downshire East representative, the concerns have been heightened in the community due to a lack of communication from the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).
The public safety matter has now made the area in Titterington Gardens a no go zone for residents during the hours of darkness, it is claimed.
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Lisburn and Castlereagh City councillor, Alex Swan (UUP) said: “While I accept that in some instances the removal of lighting in line with DfI policy is acceptable, to remove the street lighting on a pathway with two flights of steps is ridiculous.
“I was approached by an elderly resident of Titterington Gardens, Drumbo concerning the removal of two street lights at a pedestrian pathway at the rear of her home.
“Apparently while the other street lights were upgraded it was felt by DfI Roads’ engineers that these two lights didn’t meet the department’s policy.
“At night these steps are in total darkness, if a pedestrian tripped and fell there would be a high risk of injury and possibly legal action. I forwarded an email via the MLA Robbie Butler’s office months ago (to DfI), I’ve yet to receive a response.”
However, the future for the Drumbo residents is not a bright one following confirmation from DfI that the lights would not be replaced.
A spokesperson said: “The department installed a new LED lighting scheme at Titterington Gardens, Drumbo in 2021, as part of its ongoing street lighting upgrading programme.
“In line with current policy, two street lights were removed at the side and at the rear of Titterington Gardens.
“The department’s policy on street lighting for access pathways, including rear access pathways states that those roads, footways and footpaths which only give rear access to properties, or are alternative routes to already lighted roads or footpaths, will generally not be lit.
“Consequently, there are no plans to carry out any further works at this location.”
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