Grays town centre is looking brighter and more welcoming following the completion of a street lighting improvement scheme delivered by Thurrock Council.
The improvements have seen ageing street lighting columns replaced with modern, energy-efficient LED lighting, helping to create a safer, brighter, and more attractive environment for residents, visitors and local businesses.
The work forms part of the council’s ongoing commitment to improving public spaces and supporting civic pride across Thurrock.
As part of the scheme, outdated lighting columns and obsolete wall-mounted lanterns were removed, with new LED lighting installed in revised locations to improve illumination throughout the town centre.
The project also included upgrades to the electrical infrastructure used by market traders, providing a more reliable electricity supply and helping to support the town centre’s regular markets.
Importantly, the new lighting columns have been designed to accommodate banners, festive lighting and seasonal decorations, creating more opportunities for events, celebrations, and promotional activities throughout the year.
The improvements will also help reduce future maintenance requirements and improve energy efficiency, supporting the council’s efforts to deliver sustainable and cost-effective public services.
The scheme was completed safely, on time and below budget, demonstrating the council’s commitment to delivering value for money while investing in improvements that benefit local communities.
Councillor Richard Bingley, Leader of Thurrock Council, said: “These improvements are a great example of how investing in the everyday things that matter to our communities can make a real difference.
“Good street lighting plays an important role in helping people feel safe and welcome in our town centres, while also supporting the businesses and traders who contribute so much to our local economy.
“It’s particularly pleasing that this project has been delivered on time and below budget, while providing more energy-efficient infrastructure that will benefit Grays for years to come.
“We want our town centres to be places that residents can take pride in, and improvements like these are an important part of achieving that ambition.”
The lighting upgrade supports the council’s wider Civic Pride ambitions, which focus on creating clean, safe and well-maintained places, strengthening local communities, and making Thurrock a borough that residents are proud to call home.
With the new infrastructure in place, Grays town centre is also better equipped to host future events, festive displays and activities that encourage residents and visitors to enjoy everything the town centre has to offer.
