Agenda, decisions and draft minutes

There were no apologies for absence.

Councillor Bosher made a non-pecuniary and non-prejudicial interest in that his parents' road was one of those within the original trial area.

The purpose of the report by the Director of Transport, Environment and Business Support is to seek approval to consult on both the Street Lighting Vision and the Street Lighting Strategy as attached at:

Appendix A: Street Lighting Vision

Appendix B: Street Lighting Strategy

RECOMMENDED: that the Cabinet Member gives approval to consult on both the Street Lighting Vision and the Street Lighting Strategy.

The Cabinet Member gave approval to consult on both the Street Lighting Vision and the Street Lighting Strategy.

Pam Turton, Assistant Director for Transport, Environment & Business Support, presented this report, which set out the road safety and crime prevention objectives, and the aim to encourage walking and cycling by creating a more attractive environment in which to do so. It was proposed to go out to consultation from 12 June for 8 weeks, with the documents being available to view on-line and specific interest groups would be sent copies for comment.

Questions were raised by Councillors Stagg and Chowdhury, Opposition Spokespersons, including:

·         Plans to remove non-essential street lights

·         Plans to target known crime spots

·         Use of Smart Technology

Alan Cufley, Director of Transport, Environment & Business Support, clarified that the aim was to change the heads of light columns on (although any damaged lamp columns would be replaced through the usual channels). The LED lighting was more directional so gave less light pollution. 

In response to the areas reported to be poorly lit, Mr Cufley reminded members that this strategy only relates to street furniture determined within the PFI contract and other locations would be looked at separately.  Therefore the poor lighting by the Pyramids exit would be reported to the Culture & Leisure Department.

Pam Turton clarified that the existing lamp columns and new heads could assist the city with forthcoming 'Smart' technology such as community WiFi and parking sensors and cameras.  Work was underway to establish the use of the columns for on-street electric vehicle charging in suitable locations.

Councillor Stagg commented on the need for sympathetic designs to be used in the Conservation Areas.

Councillor Bosher welcomed the report and supported the crime deterrent objectives and had seen the success of the pilot of improved street lighting.

DECISION:

The Cabinet Member gave approval to consult on both the Street Lighting Vision and the Street Lighting Strategy.