Street-light scheme sparks frustration

Garth Harkness

A Saddleworth councillor has criticised an energy giant for a lack of consultation with villagers over a major street lighting replacement scheme.

E.ON is installing new poles and lights across villages, but Councillor Garth Harkness claims residents have been left annoyed and exasperated by the project.

He has had a series of meetings with E.ON after locals in Stoneswood Road, Delph, said new lights had been installed next to old wooden poles carrying electric wiring for Electricity North West.

Clutter
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, criticised E.ON for poor consultation on the sitings, and said: “I understand they can’t take the old poles down.

“But now we have twice as many poles — three in some places — and it creates clutter.

“Markings went down for the poles last month. A letter arrived saying there was a consultation period and we should get in touch about any issues, preferably prior to the markings going down.

“The whole consultation process has been a sham. I hope people in other areas will be given a fair chance.”

Councillor Harkness said: “It is no secret I have been critical of E.ON and the lack of consultation.

“The whole replacement of street lighting in Saddleworth has been a very frustrating experience.

“The new street lights are more efficient but we have had major obstacles and reluctance to engage.

“However, recent meetings have been more constructive and E.ON have agreed to engage with proposals and options relating to the heritage style lamps in conservation areas.”

At Harrop Green, Diggle, Councillor Harkness, fellow councillors and the conservation officer have put in recommendations to maintain the character of the area.

Lighting plans for the conservation areas are now on display at Denshaw Village Hall, Lees Library, Diggle Band Club, Uppermill Civic Hall, Dobcross Post Office, Greenfield Library and Lydgate Church Hall.

An E.ON spokesperson said: “Ahead of any work being carried out, we conduct an extensive consultation process with stakeholders and the local community.

Inspection

“Consultation letters were sent to residents in Harrop Green, Diggle, in April, 2015, and October, 2015, and Stoneswood Road, Delph in December, 2014, and October, 2015.

“The existing wooden poles in Stoneswood Road aren’t owned by E.ON and therefore we are unable to utilise these in our plans.

“Subject to a satisfactory inspection, the four heritage columns in Harrop Green will undergo refurbishment and fitted with new lanterns, and the single concrete column will be replaced with a new column and lantern.”

He added: “Residents can contact us should they wish to discuss any element of the street lighting works on 0800-015 0452 or O&RPFI@sustainable.eon-uk.com.