Even in the safest neighbourhoods the fear of crime after dark is a concern and across most urban areas the night time streetscape can sometimes appear foreboding and uninviting.  Having pledged to address this problem within their area during the first five year Business Improvement District (BID) term, Team London Bridge will be officially switching on our new tree lighting scheme in early March as part of their Environmental enhancement programme. 

You may have already had a sneeky preview as many of the trees are already illuminated at dusk but entire scheme will be up and running from 10th March 2010.  

The initiative will breathe new life into the streets around London Bridge with over 31,000 energy efficient LED lights being installed in 13 roadside trees. The energy bill for the entire scheme will be an amazing £350 per year (at current prices), providing a high impact solution at a low cost to the 270 businesses who fund Team London Bridge’s services.

The scheme has been designed by lighting specialists to enhance the natural beauty of the mature trees across the area, welcoming all street users while increasing roadside lighting and being environmentally sensitive.  It is being delivered and maintained in partnership with Southwark Council whose expert lighting team have introduced much improved, innovative public lighting across the borough in recent years.  The project has also been endorsed by Transport for London.

All corners of the local community have been unequivocal in their support of the new scheme. Tony Graham, Chief Executive of the Unicorn Theatre said, ‘Young families can find an almost deserted Tooley Street intimidating in the evening. We believe the tree lighting will make their walk to the station much more pleasant.’

While Jane Woolcott, Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers concurred, ‘With our new office site at More London, PwC are pleased that this new lighting scheme will be in place to welcome our employees to the London Bridge area and help provide a safer and more attractive environment for them to enjoy’.

Including design, hardware, installation, and testing, plus energy and maintenance for 10 years, the total cost of the tree lighting scheme is £125,000 and represents a considerable investment in the local area by the London Bridge business community.

For more details about this project please contact Shane Clarke on 020 7407 4701 or email shane@teamlondonbridge.co.uk.