Streetlighting Dimming Trial To Begin

Over 60,000 streetlights across Leicestershire will start to be dimmed this month.

The cost-saving move will see lighting levels reduced to 30% on most roads from 8pm and will take place for an 18-month trial.

Residents have raised concerns about the reduction increasing crime, impacting on personal safety and leading to a rise in road traffic collisions, but Leicestershire County Council says it will be constantly reviewing the outcome of the trial.

It will save the cash-strapped council around £380,000 a year and bring an approximate saving on carbon of around 261 tonnes.

FILE PIC: A trial of dimmer streetlighting will take effect this month

Cllr Ozzy O’Shea, county council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “We accept that the consultation brought a mixed response – some had perceived concerns around an increase in crime, anti-social behaviour, and an increase in accidents, but many respondents acknowledge the environmental benefits which this move would bring.

“We’re aware of the concerns and that’s why we’re looking initially at this 18-month pilot.

“We’ll be constantly reviewing the data we receive and working closely with the emergency services.

“If there are areas of concern, we will consider adjusting the lights back if the evidence supports it. At the end of the pilot, we’ll evaluate the data so our Cabinet can then decide on the next steps.”

More than half the people who responded to a public consultation said they were against plan, although no objections were received by Leicestershire Police, East Midlands Ambulance Service or Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.

Current lighting levels will be retained where there are speed bumps, zebra crossings, and in town centres.