Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 9, 2025

Purpose: Improvements in lighting technology mean more options are available for our LED replacement of streetlights. The new paper will seek agreement on the type of lighting to be used within our policy.  

Content: (a)    That the Street Lighting Policy for new and replacement lighting in Dorset be adopted. The policy includes the new environmental zoning, recommendations for dimming and the use of lower correlated colour temperature (CCT) LEDs in new streetlights, with the CCT typically not exceeding 2700K. The policy also enables town and parish councils to fund additional costs if there is a local preference for alternative equipment such as brackets, columns and lanterns.   (b)    Cabinet agreed to work with the street lighting service provider, who plans to invest in replacing 18,500 outdated lanterns over the next two or three years at no cost to the council.  In return, the service provider will receive 75% of the energy savings until their contract ends in 2032.   Reason for the decision   Limiting colour temperatures for new and replacement street lighting in Dorset would bring health, ecological and dark sky benefits. The policy took a Dorset specific approach to street lighting that balances modern technological       advancements, health and wellbeing, Dorset’s unique environment, our climate ambitions and recognised best practice.