The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate Miss X’s complaint about suffering light pollution. This is because it is unlikely we would find fault.
The complaint
Miss X complains about the Council failure to address her complaints about a ‘six-foot flashing light’ nuisance from a nearby property.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’, which we call ‘fault’. We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We do not start an investigation if we decide there is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended, section 34(B))
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by the complainant and the Council. I also considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
Miss X considers the Council did not properly investigate his complaint.
According to the information I have seen, the Council carried out site visits to Miss X’s property over three different evenings, each at different times. The Council officer spoke to Miss X on each visit to understand her concerns. However, the officer only witnessed a streetlight that was not causing Miss X a nuisance.
Based on the information I have seen, the Council responded to Miss X’s complaints in line with its policy, and therefore it is unlikely we would find fault.
Final decision
We will not investigate Miss X’s complaint because it is unlikely we would find fault.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman