Amey, one of the UK’s leading support services providers, signed an agreement with Norfolk County Council to upgrade 50,000 streetlights across Norfolk and 12,000 illuminated signs and bollards, plus maintain them for the next 25 years.
This Private Finance Initiative (PFI), worth more than £150million in total over its 25 year life, provides for the replacement of roadside street lights right across the county, as well as maintenance, repair and replacements for the duration of the contract, with the physical work set to start next February.
The agreement also includes the potential to dim lights on major routes when traffic volumes are low together with other efficient technology to reduce energy use. The agreement also includes roadside lights previously maintained by King’s Lynn Borough Council and allows for similar arrangements in the future with other district and parish councils if required.
Adrian Gunson, Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation, at Norfolk County Council said: "I am extremely pleased that we have agreed terms for this major project to upgrade thousands of the county's street lights. This investment will transform the quality of our street lighting stock. It is a fantastic deal for the people of Norfolk, with almost £80million in government grant.
"Many of our streetlights are coming to the end of their planned life and this major project will allow large-scale replacement to be carried out quickly and effectively through a private company partnership.
"There will also be environmental benefits with the new equipment. In the contract specific requirements for energy saving materials and reduced light spillage have been made, which will benefit the local environment. Thanks must go to Chris and his team for their hard work over a number of years to secure this agreement."
Chris Kutesko, Special Projects Manager at Norfolk County Council, said: "The signing of this contract represents the end of a long period of negotiation to agree a good deal for the residents and road users of Norfolk to improve lighting along Norfolk's roads."
Mel Ewell, Amey Chief Executive, added: “Amey has a wealth of experience in delivering PFI street lighting contracts throughout the UK. For us, this contract is not just about providing better street lighting in Norfolk, it is also about helping to enhance the area and benefit the local community by making it feel safer at night. We are delighted to be partnering Norfolk County Council and look forward to working together to deliver improved street lighting across Norfolk.”.