Our regular SPOC meeting focussed on the topic of Sustainable Public Lighting. This was an excellent opportunity to hear from LCAG member, the Lightmongers’ Livery, whose purpose is to promote lighting business and trade. Master Graham Smith reminded us of the facts and figures behind the carbon savings to be gained from changing lighting.
Then livery member, Perry Hazell, who is the Business Manager at the London Borough of Southwark, expanded on how lighting can shape a city both in respect of safety and perception. It was startling to learn that there are 1.4 million streetlights across Greater London. Of these 95% are now LEDs. This is not surprising as it is a relatively easy way to decarbonise a local authority’s carbon footprint. We all now know the lighting mantra Perry used, which is “Right light right place and right time”. No one listening will take street lighting for granted again.
Perry introduced his counterpart at the City of London Corporation, Ian Hughes, whose role now is wider than lighting as he is the City Operations Director. The City has unusual powers (as in so many ways it is unique) such that under 1900 legislation the Corporation can affix street lights to buildings and thus avoid too many lampposts on the street blocking pavements ( we don’t have many dogs in the City either – is there a connection?). Ian’s talk bore out the great carbon and maintenance savings from changes to more efficient lighting. He also explained that the “Bright is Better” concept has given way to softer, warmer lighting colours that feel safer and are more human in scale. The Corporation introduced Lighting Planning Guidance in 2023 so that owners of new and refurbished buildings know that they are expected to comply with lighting plans both outside and inside their buildings. The City has been part of the amazing and beautiful Illuminated River lighting of the City bridges and is working on a new scheme to light St Paul’s Cathedral which will prove an enhancement to the City’s nightscape and reveal the architectural wonders of the building in a “new light”.
Questions ranged around the benefits of lighting to health and well being, which are wider than security and wayfinding, as well as the security of electricity supply to the lighting fixtures.
The meeting was recorded and can be viewed on the LCAG YouTube Channel here.
Alderman Alison Gowman