Council could U-turn over streetlight switch-off after £10m upgrade proposed
Coventry City Council may reconsider a controversial part-night street lighting policy as councillors prepare to debate borrowing £10 million to fund a citywide LED upgrade.
The move could provide flexibility to adjust the policy, which has drawn significant criticism since its announcement earlier this year. Councillors are set to debate the proposal on 14 January.
The part-night lighting scheme, implemented in May 2024, aimed to save £700,000 annually by reducing the council’s street lighting electricity budget and redirecting funds to other essential services.
Approximately 70% of streetlights across Coventry are currently switched off between midnight and early morning.
While the council asserts there is no statutory requirement to light highways, the Highway Acts encourage it, leaving many residents concerned about safety. More than 1,400 people have signed petitions demanding the restoration of overnight lighting.
The proposed £10 million loan would enable the council to upgrade to energy-efficient LEDs, which consume less energy, require less maintenance, and have a longer lifespan.
The new LED bulbs will enable us to cut costs as well as reduce our carbon footprint, and … will allow us to monitor important environmental data across the city
Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, Coventry City Council
This technology could generate long-term savings, offsetting the costs of borrowing and potentially reducing the need for overnight switch-offs. Smart technology included in 1/5 of the new lanterns would also allow the city to monitor traffic flow, air quality, and noise levels.
Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, highlighted the project’s benefits, stating: “The new LED bulbs will enable us to cut costs as well as reduce our carbon footprint, and the smart technology in a fifth of the lanterns will allow us to monitor important environmental data across the city.”
However, the £10 million loan represents a substantial financial commitment for a council already grappling with broader budget challenges.
In its annual budget scheduled for early next year, cuts to public services of almost £14 million have been proposed as the body battles a major spending deficit.
Across the UK, other councils have faced similar funding crises, with many implementing or considering controversial streetlight switch-off schemes.
Southampton City Council and Cornwall Council have both adopted such policies, while Oxfordshire County Council is exploring similar measures.
The debate underscores a broader dilemma: balancing fiscal responsibility with public concerns and environmental goals.
To ensure your voice is heard, residents can play an active role by signing petitions, engaging with their local representatives, attending consultations, or joining demonstrations.
Comments