To improve safety, enhance efficiency, improve its carbon footprint, the council has invested £120,000 in Variable Message Signs (VMS) and innovative street lighting hoists.
The VMS signs are an important tool in communicating with residents. As opposed to the standard static traffic signs that are used about roadworks, bespoke messaging can be used about upcoming works or safety related messages on the new signs.
There is flexibility to move the signs around numerous locations and provide a variety of messaging.
Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for connectivity, said:
“Previously we used to hire these kinds of signs to put in high profile locations for additional messaging. By investing in our own signs, we are saving taxpayer’s money. The signs will greatly enhance our ability to communicate with residents and transient population as they travel around North Lincolnshire.”
The new street lighting hoists incorporate new technology, including a self-charging electric system for operation. This helps reduce the council’s carbon footprint by up to 1.5 tonnes per year while also minimising engine wear.
We have doubled the number of street light maintenance vehicles which means our teams can repair more streetlights.
Additionally, the new vehicles are now based on a 3.5-tonne chassis, compared to the previous 7.5-tonne models. This brings several advantages, such as reduced fuel consumption and lower maintenance and registration requirements due to the change in vehicle classification.
Another key benefit is that these vehicles fall into a lower driving licence category, meaning they can be operated with a standard car licence. This removes the need for additional licence upgrades and increases the number of staff eligible to drive them.
Cllr Tim Mitchell continued:
“We are committed to investing in roads across North Lincolnshire to keep drivers and pedestrians safe. The new street lighting hoists will make a big difference when it comes to maintaining and fixing street lights in our communities.
“By investing wisely in this new equipment, not only have we increased our capacity for repair and maintenance we have reduced our carbon footprint at the same time.”
