Streetlights restored following joint intervention between MLA Jon Burrows and Cllr Rodney Quigley

Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) MLA Jon Burrows (right) and Independent Councillor Rodney Quigley.

Streetlights in a residential area of Ballymena have been restored following local action by Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) MLA Jon Burrows and Independent Councillor Rodney Quigley.

Mr Burrows took joint action with Ballymena Independent councillor, Rodney Quigley, after becoming aware of the removal of street lighting in several communities across Northern Ireland, often with no immediate plan for replacement – including in the Grangeleigh Avenue area of the town.

“In recent months, some areas across Northern Ireland have seen street lights removed — with no plans for replacement,” he said. “This left many communities feeling less safe and even led to an increase in issues like dog fouling.”

The UUP representative said he worked closely with Cllr Quigley to ensure that the affected residents in Grangeleigh Avenue and surrounding streets saw the issue resolved quickly.

“I’m pleased to say that, after working closely with Independent Councillor Rodney Quigley, we’ve managed to get the lights in Grangeleigh Avenue and surrounding streets replaced within weeks,” Mr Burrows added.

He also confirmed that he had raised the matter directly with the Minister at the Department for Infrastructure, highlighting the need to prioritise public safety in any decision involving the removal or delay of street lighting repairs.

“As public representatives, it’s our job to deliver for the people we serve,” he said. “Less division and more delivery — that’s what we need to focus on locally.”

Mr Burrows also encouraged constituents to reach out if they were facing similar community issues.

“If you need help with an issue, please get in touch with my constituency office,” he said, adding his thanks to Cllr Quigley for his collaboration.

“A big thank-you to Cllr Rodney Quigley — great teamwork and a great result for the local community. Politics as it should be.”

The restoration has been welcomed locally, with residents expressing relief that the area is now better lit and safer after several weeks of darkness.