Kirkwall BID is renewing the town’s winter lighting to ensure our streets remain bright, welcoming and safe during the darker months. The current scheme has simply reached the end of its life after many years of exposure to Orkney’s weather, and the overhead canopy lights on Bridge Street, Laing Street, Mounthoolie Lane and Victoria Street, along with the braid lighting on all 15 street‑lighting poles, can no longer be safely maintained.
Replacing the lights now means we can continue providing a well‑lit, attractive town centre that helps people feel confident moving around in the winter evenings. Good lighting is essential for supporting local businesses - it encourages residents and visitors to shop, dine and spend time in Kirkwall throughout the year, boosting footfall and keeping the town centre vibrant throughout the winter and beyond.
We are extremely grateful to The Orkney Fund for awarding £22,565 towards this essential replacement project. This funding will be fully matched by Kirkwall BID’s own reserve contribution, allowing us to deliver a modern, energy‑efficient lighting scheme that supports safe access to local businesses and encourages people to shop, dine and spend time in Kirkwall all year round. The renewed lights will help keep the town centre vibrant, welcoming and accessible for everyone, even in the darkest winter months.
