Victorian bridge lanterns to be upgraded with LEDs

The lights on Carlisle's Eden Bridge are being modernised

Heritage lanterns on a historic bridge are being replaced with modern lights.

The lanterns on Carlisle's Eden Bridge have become unreliable due to their age.

The new lights, which are expected to last for 25 years, will be "authentic reproductions of Victorian designs" but will use LED technology to replicate the soft glow.

Denise Rollo, from Cumberland Council, said they would enhance the beauty of the bridge while ensuring "minimal disruption" to the environment.

The upgrade will cost about £15,000, with the majority of funding coming from the Labour-led authority's Footway Lighting budget.

Eden Bridge was built in 1815

Bob Kelly, the council's executive member for Cumberland policy and regulatory services, said: "By replacing the ageing heritage lanterns on Eden Bridge with modern LED technology, we are not only enhancing the aesthetic and safety of this historic landmark, but also significantly reducing energy consumption and light pollution."

Eden Bridge was built in 1815 and was designed by Sir Robert Smirke, the architect behind Lowther Castle in Askham and the British Museum in London.

The bridge stands over the River Eden, which is a Special Area of Conservation and serves as a nocturnal corridor for animals that live and feed along its course.

Cumberland Council said it had prioritised the protection of this environment when it considered its new options, and the LEDs will minimise light pollution.

The upgraded lanterns will operate between sunset and midnight but road lighting will be maintained to ensure safety.