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Wantage Residents Express Concern Over Streetlight Outages
Residents in Wantage have raised alarm over multiple streetlight outages in various areas, sparking safety concerns for pedestrians navigating the darkened streets. The affected areas include the A417 Challow Road, Childrey Way, Sarajac Avenue, Letcombe Hill, West Challow, Sparsholt, and Kingston Lisle.
Ridgeway ward district councillor, Dr. Paul Barrow, along with other concerned residents, have reported these outages to Oxfordshire County Council through the FixMyStreet platform. Dr. Barrow highlighted the seriousness of the issue, emphasizing the lack of visibility in these areas poses a significant safety risk for residents, especially at night.
Residents Call for Urgent Action
Dr. Barrow expressed uncertainty regarding the responsibility for the outages, particularly along the A417 opposite the Crest Nicholson site. He stressed that the malfunctioning lights have been non-operational since 2021, raising concerns about the developers’ accountability for the issue.
The lack of adequate street lighting has prompted residents to push for immediate solutions to address the safety risks posed by the darkened streets. East Challow parish council has prioritized the issue, considering potential measures to ensure proper lighting in the affected areas.
Concerns Raised Over Poor Lighting Conditions
Dr. Barrow’s report on the poor lighting along Childrey Way highlighted the hazardous conditions faced by pedestrians due to inadequate illumination. The path’s darkness, coupled with uneven surfaces and crumbling edges, has raised fears of potential accidents if the lighting issue remains unaddressed.
To illustrate the extent of the problem, Dr. Barrow shared an annotated map pinpointing areas with deficient or non-existent street lighting, urging authorities to take proactive steps to enhance public safety.
Oxfordshire County Council Responds
In response to the residents’ concerns, a spokesperson for Oxfordshire County Council clarified that the new columns along the A417 are awaiting activation upon completion of the developer’s work. However, there are no immediate plans for additional street lighting in certain areas like Childrey Way, Sarajac Avenue, and Letcombe Hill, as existing lighting already covers these locations.
The spokesperson addressed the issue of insufficient lighting in footpaths, emphasizing that decisions on new street lighting installations are based on rigorous assessments of public safety needs.
Ensuring Public Safety Through Effective Lighting Solutions
While the streetlight outages in Wantage have raised valid safety concerns among residents, efforts are underway to address these issues and enhance visibility in the affected areas. By prioritizing public safety and proactive measures, local authorities aim to create well-lit environments that promote safer pedestrian experiences in the community.
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