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Local authorities' power to block street light installation 'bonkers'

Picture credit: Dr Michelle Haywood

Former minister says it has impacted the DoI's ability to install crossings outside schools

The former infrastructure minister says it's 'bonkers' that local authorities have the power to refuse to install street lights.

Michelle Haywood, who was fired from the Council of Ministers earlier this month, has revealed there have been occasions when the Department of Infrastructure was unable to install crossings near schools because local authorities wouldn't pay for street lights.

The Rushen MHK clashed with local authorities during her time as minister over a clause in a local government bill that would give the DoI the ability to impose functions on commissioners.

Dr Haywood says the relationship between local and central government can present some practical challenges:

The Department of Infrastructure says it is aware of one issue involving a local authority and street lighting near a school, adding that matter has now been resolved. 

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