A NUMBER of new environmentally friendly LED street lights are having ‘teething’ problems in the Borders, it has emerged.

The issue was raised at the recent meeting of Peebles Community Council.

While chairman Lawrie Hayworth said feedback on the new lights was positive, he added there were a number of street lights across the town that were staying illuminated 24 hours a day.

And the problem, which has also affected some lights in other areas of the Borders, hasn’t gone unnoticed with council officials.

Leader of the council and Tweeddale East councillor Shona Haslam (Cons) replied: “We are aware of the teething issues, which are due to the timers within the lights.

“Anyone who spots a light which is on for longer than it should be, can report it on the SBC website using the online tool.”

SBC’s energy efficient street lighting programme, which started in April 2014, was initially due to finish in March 2020, but last year, the then executive member for HR and corporate improvement, Councillor Michael Cook, announced the LED rollout would be accelerated for completion two years ahead of schedule.

The project, which has seen thousands of lights, signs and bollards in the Borders replaced to a new energy-saving equivalent, is expected to save the local authority around £20 million over 20 years. To report a faulty street light, visit: www.scotborders.gov.uk/report