A WHITEHAVEN street housing a number of elderly people has been plunged into darkness after having its lamp posts removed, a resident has said.

Approximately 18 months ago, home owners on Ramsey Drive, Parton reported a missing bulb on their street.

According to the daughter of one resident, the next thing they knew, three lamp posts were being completely removed.

In July this year, whilst nights remained light, Carol Corless, whose parents live on the street, telephoned the council - who she said initially denied the lights belonged to them.

She said she was passed between the county council, parish councils and highways and then Home Group - who directed her back to the borough council.

During this period, dark nights descended once again.

Carol's father has Parkinson's; however she said there are many other vulnerable people on the road, including one full row of pensioners' bungalows, so the removal of the lights has left some elderly people in the dark.

Carol said: "A lady from the council rang me to say they had removed the street lights due to cost and there is no money in the pot to put them back.

"The lady then suggested I buy a solar light!"

 

"My parents had to fit a criteria to be able to move into that bungalow, it was a safe home for them, but now it is a worry as they have steps at the back door and it is pitch black at the front, but the front is the best route for my dad to keep him safe.

"I also find the advice to buy a solar light a cheek, if they claim to have no money how can they expect others to buy items, especially when they have caused the problem in the first place."

A spokesperson for Copeland Borough Council said: “We are aware of the matter and are currently looking at all possible avenues to help resolve the issue.

“We will continue to liaise with the resident’s family to keep them updated on our ongoing discussions.”

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