Historic street lights shine again after restoration

Historic street lights which guided Cheltenham's trams more than a century ago have been restored.

The rejuvenation of four tram columns on Prestbury Road was part of a nine-year LED replacement project across Gloucestershire, which has reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions by up to 70%, Gloucestershire County Council said.

Cabinet member for highways Dom Morris said: "The tramline columns represent a significant aspect of Cheltenham’s architectural past.

"I’m pleased the beautifully restored lights can now be enjoyed by our community for years to come."

Once home to tramlines that operated for three decades until 1931, Prestbury Road is now recognised as a conservation area, retaining four of the original columns that previously carried tram power lines.

The historic lights have been restored with replica lanterns and efficient LED lighting, the council said.

Mr Morris continued: “It’s fantastic to see such big savings made.

"We’re using the latest technology to transform all our highways services and make sure they are delivered with maximum efficiency."

After the completion of the nine-year LED lighting replacement project, the council awarded Milestone Infrastructure with a new £13.5m street lighting contract.

Under the new contract, Milestone will be responsible for maintaining the county's 62,500 streetlights and 8,000 illuminated signs and bollards.

Works will include reactive repairs in the event of lighting outages, maintenance works and street light replacements for inefficient equipment.

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.