THE lighting on Bassetts Bridge at Copplestone has not been working since a car collided with a lamp post on January 2.

The post was severely damaged and engineers had to isolate the power and remove most of the post.

The power circuit includes the central island crossing point and the illuminated beacons are also now not working.

Pedestrian access over the bridge is by a very narrow footpath on a blind bend and at night, without lighting, is extremely unsafe with large vehicles regularly using this route through the village.

Mid Devon District Councillor Stuart Penny has been pressing for action from Devon County Council as he fears that someone is going to be injured or worse, crossing the bridge or trying to cross the road using the crossing point.

He explained: "Devon County Council stated in a social media post that this would be rectified by January 22, however, nothing has been done."

Devon County Council’s responses to emails state that their maintenance team has investigated and passed a supply fault to National Grid, as they own the supply cables, even though the power was reputedly isolated at the time of the collision.

“Some residents have suggested that Devon County will not do the work until they have received payment from the driver’s insurers.

"If this is the case, Devon County Council is clearly putting money before the safety of the people living here in Copplestone and that is not good enough.”

Mr Penny added that one of Devon County Council's fundamental roles is to keep everyone safe.

He said he will continue to press for work to be completed, so that residents can walk safely around their village.