Bright idea to spend £66k on Holyrood lights blasted

Published on Thursday 17 March 2011 17:15

SCOTTISH Parliament bosses came under fire today after splashing out £66,000 on bright new lights for the building at Holyrood.

MSPs questioned the need for the new lights, fitted in several stairways around the parliament, and claimed they would increase Holyrood's energy consumption.

Lothians Labour MSP George Foulkes said the lights were just the latest extra cost associated with the controversial 414 million building.

He said: "When is it all going to stop? The original cost was bad enough, but it has just been addition on addition, month after month, year after year. There seems to be no control.

"This is at a time when the parliament is laying staff off."

The powerful lights, located on landings in at least six staircases, are in addition to the existing lighting which has been in place in these areas since the parliament opened.

Independent Lothians MSP Margo MacDonald said: "The lights are very bright, but whether it amounts to 66,000 worth of light being shed on the Scottish Parliament is another matter."

Last year the building was given a B in new energy ratings for public buildings, but that was based on theoretical calculations before it was in operation and one expert estimated the true rating was probably an F or a G, the lowest grade.

Ms MacDonald said: "We know we are already one of the least-efficient buildings as regards energy consumption, so why quibble at a little more excess in these lights?"

Another MSP said: "It would be ironic if, instead of stumbling because of the supposed gloom, someone now stumbles because they are dazzled."

Three years ago, the parliament installed stronger lighting in the entrance foyer after complaints it was too gloomy.

A Scottish Parliament spokeswoman confirmed the new lights had cost 66,000, including the supply and installation of fittings.

She said they had been put in to ensure lighting complies with recommended levels.

She said: "Facilities management is looking to reduce the existing low-level lighting to offset any additional energy consumption."