‘What is going on?’ - Streetlights outside Waterford cinema out for two and a half years
Cllr Kate O’Mahoney spoke on the subject at the June meeting of the Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District
The streetlights outside a cinema in County Waterford have been out for two and a half years, a council meeting has heard.
Sinn Féin councillor Kate O’Mahoney spoke on the subject at the June meeting of the Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District.
Cllr O’Mahoney said: ‘The public lighting outside the cinema [in Dungarvan]. They’ve been out since October 2023, I believe.
“Can we get an update on what exactly is going on there and what is the council doing to accelerate repairs on this.”
These sentiments were echoed by Labour Party councillor Thomas Phelan, who called for urgency on the issue.
Cllr Phelan said: “I’d like to support Cllr O’Mahoney in relation to the cinema lighting, something I’ve brought up many, many times.
“I’ve been in touch with the relevant person in the council that the cinema operator is willing to co-operate in any way that might help.
“If it means giving access to the building, access to the roof whatever might be required.
“For our nighttime economy and for an industry that is suffering in terms of attendance at cinemas, I think it’s not very helpful for what is also a very large rate payer in the town, that it doesn’t have the benefit of public lighting on the street right in front of it.
“It’s definitely not good for safety after dark so I think we need to see a bit of urgency on that issue.”
In response to the two councillors, Maria Goff, Senior Executive Engineer at Waterford City and Council, explained that the issues being experienced there are complex.
Ms Goff said: “With regards to public lighting, I suppose it’s more complex.
“I will follow up on it but it’s regards to the new ESB supply required for the lighting there.
“They’re currently looking at the best solution. It’s not straightforward as it’s either kind of going in the road way or on the wall of the building.”
She concluded by saying that she will look for further information and revert back to the councillors.