A brighter future: Liberal Democrats call for smart LED street lights in Wiltshire

Wiltshire Lib Dems have congratulated Bath and North East Somerset Council on leading the way saving money and energy with their new LED street light system in Keynsham, near Bath, but questioned why Wiltshire Council isn't engaging in similar schemes to cut costs in our county.

Howard Marshall, Lib Dem Environment Spokesperson, said "Bath Lib Dems estimate they're going to save £4,500 a year on energy costs, just from this one roundabout alone. As the LED lighting scheme spreads across Bath and North East Somerset, and coupled with savings from lower maintenance costs, taxpayers stand to save hundreds of thousands of pounds. Why aren't Conservatives on Wiltshire Council using new technology like this to save money, rather than leaving it to local Lib Dem Councils to lead the way?"

Trevor Carbin, Lib Dem Cllr for Holt and Staverton said "Theses streetlights provide better illumination, they last eight times longer than conventional lamps, and they save carbon emissions. With Wiltshire's enormous £600,000 carbon fine this year, the Conservative administration need to get serious about cutting their pollution. Bath Lib Dems are now rolling out this scheme across their area. We're urging Wiltshire's Conservative administration to catch up."

Sources: www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2011/jul/20/smart-street-lighting-somerset

Bath Council Press: 01225 477495