Kraainem decides to keep the lights on
The municipal authorities in Kraainem (Flemish Brabant) have decided not to cut the hours of public lighting to save cash after Russia’s war triggered a hike in electricity prices. The Flemish municipality says it doesn’t want to take any risks with citizen’s security.
In contrast many neighbouring municipalities are cutting the hours during which there is public lighting. Municipalities in the area decided last October to switch off public lighting from 11PM till 5AM Sunday through Thursday. The measure that takes effect on 1 February in Zaventem, Wezembeek-Oppem and Steenokkerzeel will save a lot of cash.
Kraainem Mayor Bertrand Waucquz says the cash that could be saved isn’t worth the extra risk to citizens’ safety. “The advice we received came down against the measure. We’ve decided not to switch off public lighting to ensure road safety and make sure people feel safe”.