A spokesperson for Roads ACT say the Government is prioritising repairs to streetlights in high use areas and major roads to ensure the public can use these areas safely, as recent inclement weather has contributed to an increase in reports of damage to streetlights and longer repair times.

“Roads ACT manages over 79,000 streetlights in the ACT as well as approximately 1,300 control boxes,” the spokesperson said.

“Currently there are approximately 600 reported streetlight issues that need to be followed up. Roads ACT expect this figure could decrease in the coming months as the weather improves.

“Roads ACT patrol Canberra streets regularly to look for possible issues and safety concerns, while Access Canberra receives reports of streetlight issues from members of the public, including through the Fix My Street website. These reports are then passed onto ActewAGL, the ACT Government’s streetlight maintenance contractor, for action.

“On average Roads ACT receives approximately 1,800 reports of streetlight outages every month, with more reports being received during winter and the lead up to winter as days are short and more people are on the road during hours of darkness. In August 1,932 reports were received, with a further 2,078 in September.

“Roads ACT is working closely with ActewAGL to address this issue. While the majority of reported streetlight issues should be addressed within ten days, the ACT Government recognises the increase in the number of streetlight repair requests and repair time may cause inconvenience to local residents.

“Priority is being given to streetlights in high use areas and major roads to ensure the public can use these areas safely.

“The ACT Government asks for patience as this issue is addressed by ActewAGL over coming months.

“The community is still encouraged to report any issue with streetlights to Access Canberra on 13 22 81 or by submitting a Fix My Street form online at accesscanberra.act.gov.au .”