Charity warns some estates could be left without light

THE REFUSAL of some local authorities to take responsibility for public lighting bills could force residents into darkness this Christmas, housing charity Respond has warned.

Estates around the country could be plunged into darkness as they are receiving disconnection notices from the ESB as the councils are not paying for maintenance and upkeep of estates.

This is in spite of a legal obligation on them, contained in the Planning and Development Act 2000, to take “in charge” residential developments, which includes the provision of public lighting.

A Respond spokesperson said it was costing the charity tens of thousands of euros in maintenance bills for services from lighting to grass-cutting and general upkeep.

“There are about 50 estates around the country which we are still paying for. I have seen outstanding ESB bills for up to €7,000 — that is just one bill for one estate,” she said.

The refusal of councils to pay means the charity often has to pay.

“We are spending money that could be going into care for the elderly or childcare.”

Pat Cogan, Respond’s chief executive, said it was inexcusable.

Respond has been in discussions with the ESB to try and maintain public lighting on the affected estates, but as a charity they could not be expected to use money to fund public lighting.

The housing charity maintains it has been in regular contact with Kildare, Kerry, Sligo and Clare county councils about the matter.

“Our residents are aghast at the possibility of public lighting being disconnected on their estate over the Christmas period.

“It is inconceivable to think that a public service would be withdrawn due to the non-compliance of some local authorities” he said.”