By Bonny Burrows
McGregor Road’s long dormant pedestrian lights are now activated.
The lights, just outside Pakenham’s Heritage Springs Shopping Centre, were installed at the beginning of 2017 following community lobbying, and were expected to be operating by the commencement of the school year.
However, an undetermined hold-up saw the lights remain dormant for seven months.
The delay frustrated numerous community members, including Drive2Drive instructor Elaina Haig, who couldn’t understand why the switch couldn’t be flicked.
“I just don’t get why it’s taking so long. They’re sitting there ready to go – switch them on,” Ms Haig told Star News in May.
In late July, an AusNet spokeswoman said the lights were ready for activation, and it was “up to the council” to notify the power company when it wants the lights turned on.
At the time, Cardinia Shire Council’s team leader of engineering, Cathal O’Loughlin, said council had requested AusNet connect power to the signals following their installation in January.
He confirmed activation was expected within the month, and two days short of the deadline, the lights were switched on.
Ms Haig was the first to use the crossing on Tuesday afternoon, after being instrumental in their installation.
She described the signals activation as “a miracle”.
“It’s really good … it’s been such a long time coming. Hopefully, it makes it a lot safer for school children and the general public to cross the road,” Ms Haig said.
