Goodbye to dark streets as walkers get to switch on the lights

A SIMPLE but effective way of lighting up the way home for pedestrians at night is proving a success in part of the Highlands.

A trial in the Sutherland town of Golspie gives people the power to turn on street lights when needed, in a money-saving move that could be illuminating for other cash-strapped authorities.

Those using a footpath connecting the A9 road to a new housing development can flick a manual switch positioned at either end. The 23 lights connected to a timer are then turned on for 15 minutes, allowing walkers to use the walkway in safety.

Highland Council installed the system last year and say it has cut the annual running costs of 370 by between 85 and 90 per cent.

Andrew Matheson, the council's lighting manager, said: "It could work elsewhere, but it would not be suitable everywhere.

"We need to look at ways of cutting our energy costs without reducing the safety to people using the footpaths."

The pilot scheme was also welcomed by other bodies.

A spokesman for the Energy Saving Scotland advice centre said it is hoped the trial can be taken up by other councils "This is a terrific and sensible idea to save energy costs and carbon emissions, he said. "

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents said the project was an interesting use of technology.

A spokesman said: "As long as people are aware of the light switches, there would not appear to be any personal safety issue.

"But councils do need to bear in mind that every area is different, and what works in one place might not work in another.

"The idea of using this type of lighting on a road would require a great deal of research and investment."