Funding approved for new lighting in area around Hill Dickinson Stadium

During recent test events and the first two competitive matches at the stadium, stakeholders and residents raised serious concerns about poor street lighting levels on routes from the City Centre, transport hubs, and surrounding neighbourhoods.

If funding is approved at the meeting tonight (Tuesday 16 September), the lighting project will deliver an upgrade of approximately 600 lanterns to modern, dimmable LEDs, as well as the replacement of 164 existing lighting columns.

The works will be phased, prioritising pedestrian links between the stadium, Sandhills station, the City Centre and Everton Park. It will also deliver increased lighting levels for events at the stadium and reduce the light levels to the appropriate standard levels when there are no events.

Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said:

“Everton’s new stadium brings vibrancy and economic opportunity to Liverpool’s waterfront, but when the original lighting around Bramley Moore Dock was designed and installed over a decade ago, the stadium project hadn’t yet been created.

“The area was classified as low-traffic, with fewer pedestrians and limited event footfall, so the lighting specification met the needs of the time.

“Subsequent budget cycles and contract timetables meant our capital investment focused first on areas with the highest immediate safety risk.

“Following the recent test events and first competitive games – and feedback from local residents and businesses – the lighting requirement has been mapped.

“Now, thanks to advances in LED technology and our new central management system, we can deliver a targeted, long-term solution. Lights will be dimmable at times when it is suitable, and raised during events when it is most needed.

“By fast-tracking these upgrades we’ll ensure streets are well-lit, providing a safer environment for everyone who lives, works and visits this part of the city.”