Lower energy bills are already being realised as the street lighting replacement programme steps up in Bournemouth.
So far around 350 illuminated bollards, such as those found in pedestrian crossing islands, have already been installed with improved LED technology resulting in much lower energy costs and reduced carbon emissions.
Now in addition to the continuing bollard programme, work has started on the 16,000 street lantern replacements. The work is being done at the rate of around 500 new lanterns a week with more than 2000 already installed.
Councillor Michael Filer, portfolio holder for transport, said: “We are delighted at how well the first few weeks have gone rolling out the bollards and now also with the first of the new energy efficient street light lanterns. The benefits are huge, not just financially as we’re already seeing a reduction in our energy costs, but also environmentally and aesthetically. What is more the cleaner, crisper light has the added advantage for many people of reducing the perception of crime and anti social behaviour. In addition we are starting on repainting many of our lamp posts as part of our Smart Streets programme of improvements so the town will really look at its best.”
Among the areas that have already been done are Muscliff, parts of Moordown and Bear Cross.
Chris Hardy, Street Lightning Manager, said: “The rollout operation is running very well and we are pleased with how SSE Enterprise Contracting are carrying out the work. Every road in the borough will see their lights changed eventually for the new LED technology with bespoke solutions developed for all types of lighting columns including those in our heritage and conservation areas.”
Andy Marcham, Regional Manager from SSE Enterprise Contracting said: “We’ve been working in partnership with Bournemouth Borough Council since 2011 to deliver maintenance support and we are delighted to get the opportunity to help with this large streetlight replacement project.
“Managed locally from our Poole depot, we’ve already made a great start by successfully replacing over 2000 lanterns since work began in May. We look forward to helping Bournemouth Borough Council achieve the many benefits this project will bring including, energy and carbon emission reductions.”
Once changed over to LED lighting the Council will save around 73 per cent a year on its annual energy costs.
Bournemouth is working in partnership with Salix Finance, an independent, publically funded company who provide 100% interest-free loans to the public sector to improve their energy efficiency. Salix will fund £4.2 million of this £7.7 million project, the remaining £3.5 million will be provided by the council.
Hayley Condie, the programme manager from Salix said: “Salix is delighted to be supporting this project. Not only does the project create impressive financial and carbon savings, it has added benefits for the community as well.”
Work installing the new lanterns will be conducted outside of peak hours in areas where temporary traffic management is needed to ensure the safety of workers. In some locations short term road closures may be necessary where there are problems with access. In such cases residents will be notified in advance and the Council will use the temporary closure to tackle other maintenance such as pothole repairs, road marking refresh and gully cleaning.
