Petition of concern over lights

Residents attending the meeting expressed their dissatisifaction at the new lights and complained that ‘they shine down on a very limited area around the pole therefore leaving streets very dark and more dangerous.’

The petition of concern will be sent to the DRD Minister, whoever that may be following the elections.

The recent public meeting in Gilford Community Centre was well attended.

Vice-Chairperson Mary Quinn gave an update on the former Gilford Mill estate, after the group successfully lobbied for it to be placed on the market last year.

It is now owned by Raceview Properties and she said she hoped to meet with them to get an understanding of their plans.

It was also attended by PSNI Local Area Commander Mr David Moore who took the opportunity to explain the issues his force are dealing with.

He explained to the audience the changes to PSNI structures within his command and the priority given to various policing matters.

Mr Moore also explained to citizens how they can help protect themselves from crime and he encouraged everyone to be vigilant in their own areas and work with Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators. Following his presentation Mr Moore took questions.

According to the Gilford Concerned Residents Group, residents were very positive in their feedback about the public meeting.

They welcomed the opportunity to learn about what is going on in the village and they were particularly pleased with Local Area Commander Mr David Moore’s presentation.

A spokesperson said: “The attendance level and the interaction at the meeting is a really positive sign that residents are engaged and wholly committed to ensuring the best range of services for and ongoing improvements to Gilford.”

The new lights have also been a concern to a resident in the Bowens Lane area of Lurgan who contacted the ‘MAIL’

She said: “These new lights are totally inadequate. It’s not just a matter of getting used to them, they are simply not fit for purpose. I don’t know if it’s the lights themselves or the poles they are on but somebody needs to think again.”