DfI U-turn! Ornate South Belfast street lights stay after removal plans sparked local concern and opposition.
Earlier, the DfI planned to replace them. They aimed to use plain metal poles and LED lights. This change worried local people. They liked the old lights a lot. The old lights allowed hanging baskets. Locals thought they improved the area’s look.
Liz Kimmins is the new Infrastructure Minister. She wrote to Gary McKeown. She confirmed that the ornate street lights stay. They will add new, energy-efficient lighting. The visual appeal will remain the same. This will save energy and costs.
Councillor McKeown is very happy. He called the decision a victory. He thought removing them was silly from the start. People are proud of their area.
Businesses are working to make the area better. Replacing the lights was a setback. The replacement lights were planned to be generic. The existing lights brought character. Keeping the lamps helps keep the area special.
Modern electric units will improve them further. The lights look nice and allow for hanging baskets. The new lighting is safe and efficient. This outcome benefits everyone. The old street lamps are saved.
Plus, the Ormeau Road gets proper lighting. The community saved these lamps. They are important to the area.