Despite there not being an imminent risk of the remaining 11 columns collapsing, they are to be removed from the central reservation by Wokingham Borough Council as a precaution.

The move follows the collapse of a light last month that fell between the safety barriers on the same section of the road.

The council immediately tested five nearby steel columns, which were all quickly taken down.

Initial tests on the remaining 11 columns proved inconclusive but follow-up ultrasonic tests showed some internal damage and could pose a small risk to motorists.

“There is no problem with the remaining lighting at the side of the A329M because they were installed completely differently to those in the central reservation,” said Cllr Keith Baker, executive member for strategic planning and highways.

“The ones removed had suffered from water damage corrosion as a consequence of their drainage system. They were also nearing the end of their lifetime, so were due to be taken down anyhow.” An independent survey of this stretch of highway will be carried out in January to assess if replacement lighting is needed, and if needed the best options available.