The City of Wolverhampton Council has completed its first phase of the ‘Lighting up the City’ project by bringing streets, public features and open spaces to life via LED lighting.
Since phase one of the Lighting up the City project began in August 2017, a brighter and more attractive environment has been created across the city. As well as forming a safer place for people to visit.
The focus of the scheme, which is also supported by contributions from the Wolverhampton Business Improvement District (BID), is on a 1.5-mile walking route through the city centre.
So far, the project has included the dressing of Dudley Street and Cheapside trees with lights along with other locations, as well as a light curtain in Exchange Street.
The Queen Square fountain and steps and St Peter’s Gardens have had new lights installed, while uplighters showcase the Lady Wulfruna statue and the Harris Memorial statue outside St Peter’s Church.
The Dudley Street light towers are also set to be replaced and long-term plans include the introduction of pocket parks - small green spaces in an urban setting.
Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment, said: “This project showcases some of the many fascinating features and buildings we have in our city while creating a more interesting and attractive environment – especially as the day turns to night.
“Lighting up selected areas of trees across the city centre and public features has already significantly enhanced the city centre environment by creating a more inviting and safer city.
“Once the project is complete, we hope visitors will follow the walking route leading them to the city’s individual landmarks and enjoy a true visitor experience when they visit our city.
“I look forward to the next phase of the project which will see more of our iconic buildings in the spotlight.”
Phase two of the project will begin this summer and following agreement and support from local partners, will see many of the city’s popular landmarks bought to life.
The council has had discussions with partners such as the University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, House of Fraser, and the Mander Centre, as the final proposal is developed.
The council intends to lead by example by proposing a specific lighting scheme to enhance the main entrance of the city’s art gallery to showcase the many architectural aspects of the building.
The council is also looking to introduce lighting schemes as part of new developments, such as the £55 million Westside project, and within forthcoming public realm improvement and connectivity projects that are being developed as part of the Connected Places Strategy delivery plan.
Efforts will also be made to introduce planning conditions that require developers to bring forward lighting schemes as part of any future sites in the city centre.
