Lights on as youths trick sensor

Lights along a stretch of cycle path in Shropshire are being left on around the clock - after youths discovered they could play a trick on the control sensor.

Retired council worker Brian Morrey noticed the lamps along half-a-mile of cycle/footpath in Telford were on 24 hours a day as he walked his dog. Mr Morrey said it was a waste of electricity and taxpayers' money.

Some 30 lights have been permanently on along the track between Hurleybrook Way, Leegomery, and the A5223 Whitchurch Drive for some time.

Mr Morrey, 54, notified Telford & Wrekin Council about the problem several months ago and asked for them to be fixed.

Now the council has claimed the problem is that youths have discovered the sensor, controlled by photo-electric cells, which are intended to make the lights come on when it is dark.

Sarah Broom, council spokeswoman, said the lamps are intentionally sensitive so the path is lit up as soon as dusk draws in.

"It is set at a particularly low level," she said. "Young people have worked this out and covered it up.

"The council is now looking at removing the sensor and replacing it with old fashioned time clocks."

Mr Morrey, from Rutland Green, Leegomery, is not convinced the youths are the only cause and believes there is a problem with the sensor.

But he said, whatever the issue, it should be resolved as soon as possible.

"I can't believe the council has let it happen at a time when everyone is being told to be careful about electricity," he said.

"And who knows how much it has cost to us as taxpayers. It is awful."

In March Shropshire County Council estimated two lights which had been on 24 hours a day for three months resulted in an extra cost of £12.26.

By Dave West