Liam McNally
Copper-wire theft has put street lights at Leakes Road, Rockbank, out of action and Melton council is appealing to the state government to provide a temporary solution until they can be fixed.
At a council meeting on Monday, May 29, Cr Steve Abboushi moved for council to contact the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to request the temporary installation of streetlights along the state-owned road.
Cr Abboushi said he is aware temporary lights are a “band-aid” solution but the interim measure could “save lives and prevent a fatality”.
“This is a significant issue in this street, there’s been a number of accidents on Leakes Road at the interchange at the Western Freeway off ramp,” he said.
Cr Abboushi said he has heard from community members who have reported the lights at Leakes Road have been out for almost two years.
Melton police Acting Senior Sergeant Mick Conway said police are aware of the Leakes Road copper theft, and that the issue is widespread. He said the theft can lead to street lights shutting down as well as train-line disruptions.
“[Copper wire theft happens] pretty much across any developing residential area and along railway networks,” he said.
“It’s a concern for us because of the safety issue and the inconvenience to the public.”
Acting Senior sergeant Conway said police are automatically alerted when there is interference with the wire pits, and people have been caught posing as workers in the middle of the night.
He encouraged anyone who sees suspicious behaviour to call triple-0.
A DTP spokesperson said the department will reinstate street lighting at Leakes Road and Western Highway in Rockbank after copper wire was stolen from the interchange.
“Copper cables can carry up to 1500 volts can cause serious injury or death when interfered with. We will deter vandalism where possible and prevent future thefts on our network,” the spokesperson said.
DTPis are currently engaging contractors to repair the damage and will consider whether suitable temporary lighting is available to be used in the interim.
