Trojan Lighting has been shortlisted for a Build Back Better Award for its recent lighting upgrade at Standish Nursery in Wigan.
Lighting in early years settings requires a careful approach. Children’s eyes are more sensitive to glare and flicker, and spaces must be evenly lit to support safety and comfort. Working to CIBSE LG05 guidance, Trojan produced a full DIALux design to ensure appropriate light levels for reading corners, play areas, and circulation spaces.
The scheme combined Trojan’s linear fittings with Mymesh dimmable and emergency capability, providing flexible, glare-free lighting that adapts to each activity zone. Smart controls and daylight sensors optimise comfort while reducing energy use. Bulkheads with corridor function improved safety in circulation routes, while exit signs with LiFePO₄ batteries delivered compliant escape lighting with minimal maintenance.
This was not a simple like-for-like replacement. The design created tailored lighting to support children’s wellbeing and staff needs. Calm, focused environments can be set for storytime, while brighter scenes can be used for active play.
As part of Trojan’s CSR policy, the project was delivered free of charge in partnership with installer Solarcrown Commercial. Standish Nursery, a registered charity, could not have funded the upgrade on its own. The result is a safer, more welcoming environment that directly benefits children, families, and staff in the local community.
The new system halves energy use compared to the old fittings, reducing both costs and carbon emissions. Long-life LiFePO₄ batteries double the service life of emergency units, lowering waste and maintenance. Replacing fluorescents with LEDs has also cut plastic use and extended fitting lifespans, aligning with circular economy principles.
The Build Back Better Awards celebrate innovation, creativity, environmental leadership, and social purpose in the built environment. Winners will be announced at the presentation ceremony at Circular Lighting Live 2025, held on Thursday 25 September at the Minster Building in the City of London.
