A primary school in Altrincham is one of several Trafford buildings leading the way in low-carbon changes by swapping out all its light fittings and replacing them with energy efficient LEDs.
Pupils of Navigation Primary School in Hawarden Road, Altrincham, are now enjoying fresh and well-lit spaces – while staff are getting ready to count fuel bill savings.
LED lights typically use a quarter or less of the electricity needed for standard, incandescent bulbs and more buildings in Trafford are beginning to make the switch.
They include Urmston Library which is now all LED, Sale West Community Centre, which has work ongoing, plus Brentwood School and College and Gorse Hill Primary School. Leisure centres in Trafford are also already lit mainly by LEDs.
The management at Navigation Primary School, built in the early 2000s, developed a proposal for changes after problems with failing and expensive lighting that was difficult to upkeep.
They were prioritised for a grant from Trafford Council to help with the cost of replacing all 180 light fittings.
Staff from Council partner Amey under the One Trafford Partnership conducted an electrical survey followed by the refit, inside and out – from the smallest cupboard to the school hall and exterior lights - which is now almost complete.
Head teacher Karen Grant is pictured with pupils from the school's Eco Warriors group, and new lights in the library.
School manager, Rachel Pleasant, said:
“LED lights are definitely the way things are going. I was given the task of looking for ways that we could reduce carbon and costs and this was one really good idea that we progressed.
“It took a while in the planning and having the work done but we are nearly there now! Some of our pupils are very eco-conscious and have been excited to learn about our new lighting, and everyone is enjoying the bright, fresh interiors and grounds that the new lighting affords.”
Cllr Barry Winstanley, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, said:
“We are delighted to have helped Navigation Primary School and other organisations to make this big change, and pleased to see community members and school children so happy with the results.”
Cllr Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council, said:
“The support we have offered Navigation Primary School and others ties in with two of our Council priorities – to provide the best start in life for children and young people and to address climate change.”