STREET lights throughout Gloucestershire are receiving an LED upgrade as the county council seek to reduce energy and carbon emissions saving £17million over the next 12 years but at a cost of £22million.

Work has already begun, with fresh LED bulbs lighting some areas of Stroud and Stonehouse.

The new bulbs will use 50-70 per cent less energy than the current sodium ones, they will also emit less light pollution because they direct light downwards.

Their white light also provides greater visibility than the yellow/orange glow of the current street lights.

Project manager of the upgrade overseen by Skanska’s Tim Henderson said: “We will not meet our carbon reduction or climate change target without this change.

“We are already doing all we can to reduce the costs of street lighting; including switching off, dimming, and installation of LED bollards and signs.

“While access to properties will be maintained during this time, we may need to reduce the pavement width and use barriers to ensure we can work safely.

“During this period, on-street parking may be affected, however, all works will be at height and no excavators should be necessary.

“Residents and pedestrians are asked to be patient, and we will do our best to minimise any inconvenience to you.”

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you in advance for your co-operation.”

There are already 5,500 LED ‘lanterns’ in place throughout the district after a county council decision in 2014 to increase usage on more carbon friendly lighting options.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways, said: “I’m really pleased with the progress we’re making in bringing these new street lights to the county.

“There are so many benefits to using LED lighting. They’re more environmentally friendly, decrease light pollution, offer a better quality of light and a 70 per cent reduction in energy usage.

“They’re great for communities because they produce a brighter, clearer light that makes people feel safe at night, and of course they’ll save us all lot of money.”

The work to upgrade all 55,000 lights across the county should be completed by March 2019.

To find out more information about LED street lighting, and to give the county council your feedback go to www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/LEDSL.