A trial initiative in East Riding involves the switching off of over 600 street lights on major roads to reduce pollution and monitor road user behaviour.
In a significant development aimed at reducing pollution levels, over 600 street lights have been switched off across major roads in England as part of a trial initiative. The changes, which affect two primary routes in the East Riding area, are set to last for a period of 12 months, during which there will be a close monitoring of driver behaviour, cyclists, and pedestrians.
The specific roads impacted by this measure include the A164, stretching from the Humber Bridge to Willerby and from Cottingham to Skidby, alongside the A1079 from Dunswell Roundabout to Ennerdale Bridge. The decision to turn off the lights is scheduled to take effect from 4 April.
According to the local council, the initiative is part of a broader scheme aimed at decreasing the power consumption associated with road lighting. The council stated that all roadway designs will be equipped to provide necessary visual cues, allowing for safe navigation without the reliance on traditional overhead street lighting.
Karl Rourke, the council’s service manager for street lighting, expressed optimism about the project’s potential benefits. Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, Rourke noted, “The East Riding is at the forefront of this innovative project which could lead to a massive reduction in carbon and energy on UK roads.” He elaborated that through the use of thermal imaging cameras, the behaviour of road users will be meticulously monitored to ensure their safety.
Community reactions have been mixed, with some locals acknowledging the effectiveness of existing road reflectors and questioning the necessity of street lighting on certain routes. One resident suggested the need for a transition to solar-powered and energy-efficient LED lights, advocating for the trials of motion sensor lights that would dim when there is insufficient movement.
However, others raised concerns regarding the potential hazards posed to wildlife, particularly stating that the lack of lighting could lead certain species, like hedgehogs, to venture onto roads more often, thus increasing the risk of roadkill. This perspective was echoed by another local who expressed scepticism about the approach, suggesting that while carbon reduction is crucial, the methods employed may not be the best fit for ensuring safety on the roads.
As the trial continues, the outcomes will potentially set a precedent for similar initiatives across the UK, with a keen focus on balancing environmental concerns and public safety on the roads.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/12/29/why-councils-are-about-to-switch-off-your-street-lights/ – This article discusses the broader trend of councils across England reducing street lighting to meet budgetary constraints and carbon reduction targets, directly supporting the initiative mentioned in the article about switching off street lights in the East Riding area.
- https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-news/transport-streets-and-waste/more-transport-streets-and-waste-news-stories/next-phase-of-green-initiative-to-cut-carbon-emissions-and-light-pollution-by-turning-off-or-dimming-streetlights/ – This source details Cornwall Council’s initiative to turn off and dim streetlights to reduce carbon emissions and light pollution, aligning with the article’s claim about local councils implementing similar measures.
- https://waysandmeans.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Report-of-the-Impeachment-Inquiry-of-Joseph-R.-Biden-Jr.-President-of-the-United-States.pdf – While this source itself does not relate to streetlights, it serves to illustrate the notion of government initiatives impacting local policies, similar to how the local council’s decision to alter street lighting reflects broader governmental environmental objectives.
- https://www.heritage.org/climate/commentary/more-road-crashes-ahead-britains-dim-future – This article warns about the potential increase in road accidents due to reduced street lighting, reinforcing concerns from residents in the original article regarding safety for wildlife and road users.
- https://www.courts.michigan.gov/492eca/siteassets/publications/benchbooks/evidence/evidbb.pdf – Although this is a legal document unrelated to street lighting, it serves as a reminder of the importance of evidence and monitoring—principles that are echoed in the article’s discussion about monitoring driver behavior and pedestrian safety.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The initiative mentions a start date of 4 April, suggesting recent planning. However, no further context or updates are provided about ongoing or previous trials.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
The quote from Karl Rourke is directly attributed, but without further online verification of this specific quote, it’s hard to determine its original source.
Source reliability
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative originates from a reputable regional news outlet, Birmingham Mail. However, quotations and claims could be verified further for absolute reliability.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The initiative, focusing on reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions by switching off street lights, is plausible and aligns with current environmental efforts. Concerns about wildlife safety are also reasonable.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The narrative appears to be fresh and relevant, focusing on a recent environmental initiative. While quotes could be verified further, the source is generally trustworthy, and the claims seem plausible within the context of current environmental policies.
