45,000 street lights across County Durham are to be replaced with state-of-the-art LED lights, which means they will be more environmentally friendly and cheaper to run.
A six year programme is now underway and will save around £24m over a 25 year period. It will also see carbon emissions from street lights which are part of the project reduced by 73 percent over the same time span.
The LED light source means they will provide a white light source which provides clearer white light to aid visibility.
Alongside the start of the scheme, Durham County Council is also revising its street lighting policy. As such, Cabinet members will be asked to start a public consultation on proposed changes which include getting rid of redundant street lights in some rural unpopulated areas, although only where it is safe to do so. It also proposes a carefully controlled dimming programme in times of low pedestrian and road traffic usage.
Cabinet member with the environment portfolio, Cllr Brian Stephens, who is from Shildon, said, “The LED lights bring a whole host of benefits. They are much more energy efficient, so they will reduce our carbon emissions, and they have a longer lifespan, so they will reduce maintenance costs.
“They also provide a clearer white light, which improves visibility.
“By combining these benefits with a new street lighting policy, we can protect the environment and make the financial savings we have to make.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
