THOUSANDS of ageing street lighting columns across Cumbria are estimated to be in 'danger of collapse', according to a report going before a high-ranking council committee today.
Thirteen thousand - around 30 per cent of the current stock - are at risk due to a combination of their age and the type of material used to make them, says a report to Cumbria County Council's cabinet.
And 3,300 street light columns are said to be in a 'critical' and 'advanced state of decay' and in need of urgent replacement.
Councillors are expected to agree an £8.3 million plan to do so - which will then have to go to the full council - as well as ordering a structural survey of around 9,000 others.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here