Work to replace Skegness’s distinctive street lighting has been halted following a strong public backlash — with county councillors stepping in after residents made their voices heard online.

The row erupted after ornate decorative lamps along the town’s main shopping street in Lumley Road began to be replaced with more modern designs, prompting widespread criticism from residents and businesses who said the new lights were out of keeping with the character of the area.

Former Skegness councillor and photographer John Byford said he was first alerted to the changes by Michael Moody, of Moody’s Holiday Let, who staged a protest near to the work. Photographs of the new lights were quickly shared on social media, triggering hundreds of comments opposing the scheme and questioning why no public consultation had taken place.

Following the growing backlash — including coverage by Lincolnshire World — Lincolnshire County Council councillors Jimmy Brookes and Adrian Findley intervened.

Michael Moody (right) with signatures protesting against the new lighting in Skegness.

placeholder image — Michael Moody (right) with signatures protesting against the new lighting in Skegness.

Councillor Brookes explained that the lighting scheme had been commissioned by a previous county council administration in 2024 and added to the highways works programme. However, after seeing residents’ reaction online, both councillors contacted Lincolnshire County Council’s Highways Department.

Coun Brookes said: “Councillor Findley and myself listened to residents and saw the social media posts and article and contacted Highways, who were really good and put a stop to the work.

“It is now going to engagement, which means there will be a form online on the LCC website. This will be open and transparent and will tell the public the costs of the various options. Whatever residents want, we’ll go for.”

Mr Byford welcomed the pause, but said the situation highlighted a wider issue around consultation.

“While Skegness must of course move with the times, there are certain elements that help maintain the town’s character and visual appeal — and the previous lighting was one of those,” he said.

“The new lamps are entirely out of keeping with Lumley Road and do nothing to enhance the street scene. They feel like cheap, unattractive replacements rather than a considered improvement.”

The controversy has reopened a long-running debate about street lighting in Skegness. In recent years, Lincolnshire County Council faced criticism after switching off many street lights overnight as a cost-saving measure, raising concerns about safety and the town’s appearance.

Mr Moody said he was told the original Lumley Road lights were already LED, although the proposed replacements would allow remote dimming to deliver additional energy savings. Critics argue that cost and efficiency should not come at the expense of Skegness’s identity — particularly on its flagship shopping street.

“With the county council now under new political control, there should be a clear commitment to listening to Skegness,” Mr Byford added. “This shows what can happen when residents speak up and councillors respond.”

Residents will soon have the opportunity to have their say formally when the public engagement process goes live on the Lincolnshire County Council website.