The Blackpool PFI continues apace. More and more columns are being labelled-up, but most excitingly, actual columns and lanterns have been installed down a few roads!
I'm pleased to say that Nedal aluminium columns are being used (I've always thought these look very smart and modern), and the lantern of choice, amazingly it's not 2600s, Vectras or Iridiums but, well I don't really know the ID
I've seen this lantern before on an odd occasion, but can't find it online.
An example:
http://paulharris.fotopic.net/p64126341.htmlI really like the look of them, very modern. Most columns aren't yet fitted with lanterns, however all of the ones that are, whether they be group A or Group B are fitted with the pictured lantern. All are radio-controlled, however sadly they run SON, I was really hoping for MH tbh, but other than that I'm very impressed so far. The roads where this work is going-on (almost all in the Foxhall area of town near the prom) even have little signs apologising about the ongoing work which is a nice touch I guess.
Areas where there are a number of defective columns, higher than average night-time crime-rates or night-time accident rates are being targetted first according to the website, which makes sence. I can see that the novelty will soon wear-off once the new installations are found all over the borough, but for now it's very exciting, as other than casual replacements here and there, the town's lighting's remained much the same since around 2001. Strange to think that before too long the likes of the currently countless Vectras, MRL6s, 2600s and SRL8s will be in the minority (perhaps even extinct in the borough). The surrounding areas of Fylde and Wyre at least will retain a healthy stock, which brings me onto my next point.
I notice that
these are in the process of being replaced by that Lancashire favourite, Vectras on Stainton 'Bones' columns and that on a couple of Cleveleys side-streets
these typical Wyre group B installations have had Vectras retrofitted onto them. Makes me wonder if all the boroughs SRL8s will suffer the same fate? So there we go, just as Blackpool 'falls-out' with the Vectra, Lancashire County Council fall even more in love with it