Edinburgh's older lampposts are to be replaced by more energy efficient ones after the Council secured a further £1m in funds.

The additional money will be used to replace up to 760 old concrete and steel lampposts which failed an independent risk-based structural test.

The new aluminium columns are the first choice in street lighting designs as they do not need on-going maintenance and have a design life of more than 50 years – almost double the design life of the previous lights.

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They are also built using recycled material and can be recycled again at the end of their life.

By 2020, street lighting electricity costs are predicted to double and the new posts will be fitted with energy efficient white light lanterns, which will support the drive to reduce electricity costs whilst helping the Council meet its environmental targets.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Environment Convener, said: "Replacing old lampposts with modern aluminium columns makes both environmental and financial sense. They last up to twice as long as the traditional designs, and can even be recycled once finished with.

"This would be an ideal opportunity to save energy and our carbon footprint, as well as to reduce the amount paid to light the city. It would also help to improve safety of residents and visitors."

(JP/CD)