Trenches irk residents
Clr Humphreys said the explosion was caused by a breach in the system while the contractors were digging.
The ward 20 councillor, Clr Jill Humphreys, has called on contractors installing fiber optic cables in the area to be considerate.
Clr Humphreys said her call comes after complaints by residents that the contractors were digging up pavements and driveways with no prior notification to homeowners.
“We wake up every day to yet another pavement being trenched. Yes we all look forward to speedy internet connectivity that the proper installation of fiber can provide. However, what is currently happening in Bedfordview is alarming and infuriating to residents,” said Clr Humphreys.
She said the contractors have little regard for municipal infrastructure.
“They dig, ripping through lovingly nurtured pavement gardens, paved driveways, lighting and irrigation systems as well as entry security systems. Our dwindling and precious water resource is regularly sent gushing into the storm water drains,” said Clr Humphreys.
The suburb recently had a two-hour long power cut after an explosion at the Harper Road substation.
Clr Humphreys said the explosion was caused by a breach in the system while the contractors were digging.
“As a result, the overloaded circuit at the substation exploded and burst into flames. About 90 percent of Bedfordview was without electricity for two hours. Our [electrical] technicians had to isolate the damage and reroute the electricity before switching areas back on,” said Clr Humphreys.
While some residents expressed frustrations, others celebrated the new development.
One resident urged the community to look at the positive results that fiber would bring.
“I am excited that infrastructure is being put in, it is sorely needed. Unfortunately, in some parts of Bedfordview a lot of public space is taken up by excessive planting and rock features, making the area inaccessible to the public. I am sure contractors will level the area again, and the grass will make a full recovery by next year. It’s a positive development that we are getting upgraded,” said the resident.
Another resident said if she had been warned of the current development, she would not have decorated her pavement garden.
Echoing her sentiments, another resident said she is saddened by the damage done to her driveway.
“Our pavement was also destroyed. We have cobbles as opposed to regular pavers, which have not been put back correctly and will be damaged over time as a result. Most of the beautiful pavements in our road are now destroyed and the water restrictions don’t help in restoring them. The worst part is that the majority of us probably won’t even be using this service,” said the resident.
