Agenda item

Report of the Director of the Built Environment.

The Committee received a report of the Director of the Built Environment concerning City Lighting Strategy Update.

The Chair stated that this was an interim report, requested in partnership with the P&T Chairman, following concern from Members at the lack of progress on buildings not applying the necessary efficiency benefits and keeping lights on permanently.

Officers were proud of the ground-breaking LED Programme and noted that budgetary savings were not as high due to the increase in energy prices. The right steps were being taken to reduce usage and the carbon footprint in the City, and the aim was to include setting lighting in framing of climate action which would require significant engagement with businesses and developers. Planning campaigns and new guidance was being developed.

The Deputy Chairman stated that the street lighting project was completed to time and budget with phenomenal savings and should be highlighted in communications from the Media Team.

A Member noted that building managers were surveyed and keen to change but were receiving push back from their tenants. It was hoped that the formal guidance would help support change. Officers agreed to engage with the Member concerning a lighting code of practice.

A Member observed that there was nothing in the strategy regarding lighting for safety for public exercise and encouraged engagement with sports and activity clubs. Officers confirmed they could directly influence how lights were managed against ASB and safety for exercise.

A Member suggested advertising how easy it is to change to LED lighting and the benefits to all residential estates.

In response to a request for practical advice that Members could share now to encourage constituents to switch lights off, Officers agreed to check what advice was currently available in advance of the upcoming planning advice and guidance coming for best practice.

RESOLVED, that the report be noted.