A299 Thanet Way Chestfield Tunnel Lighting Upgrade
The A299 Chestfield Tunnel lighting upgrade was carried out after a long period of consultation to enhance safety and efficiency of the tunnel lighting.
The key driver for the project was the reliability of the lighting, the impending law changes that will affect the availability and use of fluorescent lamps.
We were part of a team working for Bouygues Energies and Services who held the lighting maintenance contract for Kent County Council and Core Controls the subcontractor.
Here are some of the key details:
Project Overview
- Purpose: The lighting replacement was necessary due to the existing fluorescent lamps nearing the end of their lifespan. These lamps were to be phased out completely, prompting the shift to LED technology, which is both more efficient and environmentally friendly.
- Energy Efficiency: The new LED lighting system is expected to reduce energy consumption by over 1 million kWh per year, which is a 63% reduction compared to the old system. This change will also contribute to lower maintenance costs and the authority’s carbon footprint.
Timeline and Execution
- Duration: The upgrade began on April 24, 2023, and was completed by the end of June 2023. To ensure we could carry out the removal of the old lighting system and install the new one, we manufactured all the support system hangers off-site prior to commencement.
- 24 hour working: We implemented a continuous working pattern that allowed us to work 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, thus reducing the amount of time this key traffic route was disrupted for.
- Traffic Management: A contraflow traffic system was implemented during the upgrade to minimize disruption. This system allowed work to proceed safely while maintaining traffic flow.
- Temporary Speed Limits: A temporary speed limit of 40 mph was set for safety during the works.
Technical Enhancements
- New Lighting System: The upgrade involved the installation of a modern lighting control system, which includes luminance meters and an advanced communication system for real-time management.
- The tunnel lighting system design: The lighting design incorporated a “dual supply with UPS Battery back-up.” This offered a robust, reliable energy source that improved the reliability of the lighting system.
- Safety Features: The new system is designed to reduce hazards associated with the old lights, which contained mercury—a hazardous substance.
Community Impact
- Local Response: The local council emphasized the urgency of the upgrade for public safety. The works were carried out to the highest quality and the traffic disruption minimised by a contra-flow and continuous attendance of skilled engineers.
This lighting upgrade not only enhances the safety and visibility within the tunnel but also reflects a commitment to modern infrastructure practices and environmental responsibility.
