In a bid to modernise while preserving Bath's rich architectural heritage, Bath & North East Somerset Council embarked on a journey to replace outdated lighting with energy-efficient LEDs in Kingsmead Square. Guided by a commitment to aesthetics and sustainability, the council partnered with Acrospire to illuminate the historic square, resulting in significant energy savings and preserving its timeless charm.

On the west side of Bath city centre, Kingsmead Square is a bustling hub of street food delights. Once a site encompassed by the city walls, this vibrant square has evolved into a destination for artisanal coffee or a drink at its award-winning bars. With a storied past tracing back to the 18th century, Kingsmead Square exudes the charm of Georgian architecture with a lively atmosphere that captivates visitors and locals alike.

Bath & North East Somerset Council, recognising the need to modernise infrastructure while maintaining the area’s heritage appeal, initiated a project to replace the squares outdated SON and SOX lanterns with LED lighting.

Stephen Burrell, Principal Engineer Street Lighting at Bath & North East Somerset Council, emphasised each heritage location’s uniqueness, underscoring the project’s bespoke nature. He noted, 'In our challenge to revitalise heritage lantern locations, we’ve treated each site as a distinct project tailored to meet the unique demands of specific areas. As part of a broader initiative encompassing 400-500 luminaires, we’ve prioritised not only cost savings and budget control but also the integration of classic aesthetics, particularly in this popular location.'

To meet the council’s requirements, Acrospire proposed replacing the existing SON and SOX lanterns with its popular 3000K Birkdale luminaires and coordinating columns. The Birkdale, known for its timeless design and versatility, was chosen to complement the square’s Georgian aesthetic, providing a warm nighttime glow.

Crafted using locally sourced materials in the UK, the Birkdale luminaires offer exceptional quality and durability and contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. Suspended vertically from 1.25″ stainless steel spigots, these luminaires provide an elegant solution while ensuring longevity and performance.

Stephen emphasised the importance of collaboration with manufacturers like Acrospire in overcoming challenges inherent in heritage projects. He stated, 'It’s important to collaborate with a manufacturer who understands the intricacies of heritage projects and is willing to work closely to navigate the inevitable challenges. Balancing cost savings, aesthetics, and budget control is essential along the journey of preserving our heritage. Finding this equilibrium ensures the successful realisation of our vision while honouring the legacy of our historic sites.'

The upgrade to LED technology resulted in significant energy savings while blending with the warm golden stone of Bath’s Georgian architecture.

To find out more about Acrospire’s heritage range please visit: https://acrospire.co/ranges/heritage/