M5 - M49

Unique in that it is only accessible from other motorways, the M49 motorway is a critical route in England, linking the M4 (J22) with the M5 (J18A). Constructed alongside the Prince of Wales Bridge in 1996, the M49 provides essential connectivity for motorists between the outskirts of Avonmouth and South Wales. Due to its importance in facilitating regional travel, National Highways sought to modernise the road's lighting to reduce maintenance costs and improve energy efficiency.

In 2019, National Highways Area 1/2 engaged CU Phosco to design a comprehensive lighting solution for the M49 link road. This project, spanning the 5-mile stretch between the M4 and M5, aimed to replace ageing SON lighting with modern, energy-efficient alternatives. Although delayed due to cable infrastructure challenges, the lighting redesign was completed in 2023, allowing CU Phosco to partner with Mway Comms for installation.

CU Phosco worked closely with National Highways and Mway Comms to deliver a solution to optimise safety and efficiency along the M49. A total of 255 P862 LED luminaires with ANSI Nema sockets to accommodate the Lucy Zodion CMS were installed, replacing the outdated SON stock. The P862 luminaire, known for its superior optical performance and thermal management, was chosen for its ability to meet National Highways' strict specifications and supplied, including safety Tether kits.

The P862's dark sky certification ensures minimal light pollution, while its lightweight design and low wind profile made it ideal for installation on existing lighting columns. This project utilised various outputs and bespoke hybrid optics to complement its future-proof design, offering an optimal balance of efficiency, longevity, and performance.

The new LED lighting system significantly enhanced visibility and safety along the M49 while also delivering substantial energy savings, helping to align with National Highways' sustainability goals.

Additionally, the P862's design reduces the need for frequent maintenance, further cutting operational costs. This modernisation effort not only improves the driving experience for road users but also supports National Highways' long-term objectives of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing road safety.

“Mway Comms and CU Phosco have worked closely to deliver this lighting scheme. Early supplier involvement ensured that all lanterns were delivered in advance of the planned install date to allow for detailed planning to be undertaken, in what has turned out to be a very busy section of the national motorway system. Other major projects in the vicinity, that were utilising the M49 as part of their diversion route restricted the access for installation, but with all 350 lanterns available from the start, works could be rescheduled at short notice to minimise time lost to cancelled road space.

A successful project and I look forward to working with CU Phosco again in the near future on similar schemes.”

Stuart Griffin, Contracts Manager, Mway Comms