Tough spending choices for blackout councils

In Saturday’s Yorkshire Post we revealed how local authorities across the region are already considering plans which could see over 40,000 lights switched off overnight while others are dimming lights to cut energy bills.

Information supplied under the Freedom of Information Act revealed that figure could well increase – with York, Calderdale and Harrogate councils all saying they may look at the merits of such a move in the future.

The blackouts, usually imposed between midnight and 5am, are being imposed by councils to cut energy bills and meet carbon reduction targets.

Some councils already faced with major budget reductions are having to plan where to find extra cash to meet a green tax they will have to pay based upon its energy emissions. The Carbon Reduction Commitment is designed to cut energy emissions but it does place an extra burden on struggling councils.

The Yorkshire Post’s investigation revealed four local authorities, Kirklees, North Yorkshire, Leeds and Rotherham, have either backed plans to turn off lights part time or are considering such a move to cut energy bills.

Coun Gareth Dadd, of North Yorkshire County Council, said only “unnecessary street lighting” would be turned off and it was a way of cutting costs while ensuring other essential services could be maintained.