New LED lights in traffic signals to save West Sussex County Council almost £600,000
Traffic signals in West Sussex have been updated with the latest LED technology that it's expected will save the county council almost £600,000 in operating costs and nearly 600 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions.
94 traffic signal sites now have new signal heads, push-button units, vehicle and pedestrian detectors, advanced controller systems, traffic signal poles and cabling to support the latest LED technology. Officials say the essential upgrade will result in a safer, more efficient, and sustainable transport network in West Sussex.
The new LED lights use 84% less energy than halogen bulbs which it's expected will save the council an estimated £594,000 in operating and maintenance costs over the life of the new equipment. The project also has a carbon saving forecast of around 590 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions.
The County Council used the opportunity provided by the £6.4 million programme to upgrade pedestrian crossings with the latest puffin crossing detectors. Puffin crossings improve safety and reduce traffic delays by monitoring how the crossings are used in real time. The traffic lights remain red while pedestrians are on the road and turn to green as soon as the crossing is clear. Other improvements were made to improve accessibility including resurfaced footways, new tactile paving, and refreshed road markings.
The enhanced reliability and operational performance will improve safety for the engineers who maintain the network by reducing their exposure to hazardous working conditions by 90 hours per year.
Councillor Joy Dennis, West Sussex County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport said: “This programme was never just about replacing lightbulbs. It’s a major investment in the future of our highways network and an important part of the council’s transport strategy to improve road safety and reduce congestion by helping traffic flow more efficiently.
“As well as improving safety, reliability and operational performance, the LED upgrade aligns with the council’s focus on achieving long-term value for public investment. It also supports the council's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan through forecast carbon savings.”