Issue - meetings

To give consideration to a report on the Council’s Street Lighting Strategy

Consideration was given to a report outlining the strategy for the investment into street lighting within Cheshire East to deliver both energy and carbon savings.

With regard to the process applied to identify the appropriate operation for street lighting, it was agreed that, to fully allow the impact of seasonal changes to be assessed, the scheme should be reviewed after 12 months rather than 6 months.

Members raised concerns that lights would be switched off between midnight and 5.30am at weekends, however the Portfolio Holder assured the Committee that this would only happen in residential areas and not within town centres.

It was highlighted that the proposals may cause energy suppliers to increase their tariffs, which the Authority was unable to influence. Therefore the financial savings may be minimal; however there would be carbon and energy savings.

It was agreed that consultation and marketing with the public and Town and Parish Councils was critical, as concerns regarding fear of crime and possible accidents must be addressed.

RESOLVED

That Cabinet be recommended to approve the Street Lighting Strategy subject to the comments highlighted above.