Concern as streetlights not replaced on Garnant footpath

The streetlights on the footpath joining Ceidrim Road to Cwmamman Road in Garnant were removed around one year ago.

Despite the footpath linking to many houses, shops and bus stops in the area, there is currently no lighting.

The footpath joins Ceidrim Road to Cwmamman Road. (Image: Cllr Emyr Rees) Many houses and shops are linked to the footpath. (Image: Cllr Emyr Rees) Cllr Emyr Rees said: “I have been received many complaints from residents following the removal of the streetlights on the footpath.

“I absolutely feel their anger and frustration considering the lack of regard for the safety and wellbeing of the footpath users. I have been in regular contact with the authority for a year and had many assurances that the lights would be returned.

“Sadly, though, there has been no action yet. As winter is fast approaching and the nights are getting longer, residents can’t go through another winter feeling unsafe on this footpath.

“I hope that action is taken very soon, and lights are reinstalled here immediately.”

According to Cllr Rees, he sent several emails to Carmarthenshire County Council requesting for the streetlights to be replaced in January.

However, he was informed it was National Grid’s responsibility to get mains power to the path and power the streetlights.

This comes after the previous streetlights did have enough overhead main power to light up the footpath.

One resident expressed how there is a risk of someone could be physically assaulted in the dark if the streetlights are not replaced.

They said: “They took away the lights on October 13, 2023, and they have not been replaced. The path is overgrown and not kept very tidy. The path is too dark to not have lights on.

“Have we got to wait until a person is attacked and hurt badly before they put the lights back up?”

Following resident’s concern, Carmarthenshire County Council were approached for comment on the situation.

A spokesperson for the council said: “The only nearby area where National Grid has removed electricity cables and wooden poles due to their condition is along a minor footpath connecting Ceidrim Road to Cwmamman Road.

“National Grid has since installed a new wooden pole and will notify us once the overhead electricity supply is reinstated. Following this, we will proceed with reinstalling the streetlight at the location.”

When asked for a rough estimate for when the streetlights could be replaced, the county council said they are waiting for an update from National Grid before revealing their plan.