University campuses today are under increasing pressure to improve safety, meet sustainability targets, and create environments that enhance wellbeing and place. Across the UK, Urbis Schréder is helping institutions achieve these goals through innovative and intelligent lighting solutions.
Smarter lighting for safer, greener campuses
At Nottingham Trent University, safety and sustainability go hand-in-hand. To enhance visibility and peace of mind across its campuses, the University turned to Urbis Schréder’s SHUFFLE smart pole — a sleek, multi-functional solution combining high-quality lighting, intercoms, CCTV, and beacons into a single, customisable column.
Each SHUFFLE is tailored to its location and features:
- Precision optics for targeted light distribution
- Warm white LEDs (2,700K) to protect the surrounding woodland ecosystem
- A 360° camera and two-way audio-visual intercom for enhanced security
- Custom branding in university colours for visual identity
All units are managed through Schréder EXEDRA, an open lighting control platform that provides real-time performance monitoring, minimises maintenance, and future-proofs the system.
In 2022, NTU was ranked the 2nd most sustainable university in the world in the UI Green Metric World University Rankings — a testament to its commitment to environmentally responsible infrastructure.
By combining safety with intelligent lighting design and operational efficiency, NTU has enhanced both the functionality and feel of its campus — all while staying true to its sustainability ethos.
Linking innovation to preservation
While NTU prioritised safety and visibility across high-traffic urban campuses, Keele University faced a different challenge: enhancing safety on campus without disturbing its dark-sky environment, which supports active astronomical research and public observation.
Preserving dark skies while improving campus safety
Keele University in Staffordshire is home to an astronomical observatory that has been active since 1962. Any lighting upgrade would need to protect the observatory’s dark skies while improving safety — particularly on Woodmeadow Walk, a previously unlit route between campus buildings that posed a concern for pedestrians.
As part of a wider energy-reduction programme in 2017, the University partnered with long-standing contractor Altitude Services, who brought in Urbis Schréder to deliver a sensitive, low-impact solution.
To light the path, Urbis Schréder proposed PHAROS bollards — low-level, energy-efficient luminaires with precisely engineered optics that deliver focused ground illumination without any upward light spill. Installed every 10 metres, they provide a continuous safe passage while reducing installation and long-term maintenance costs.
The luminaires are also connected to Schréder EXEDRA, giving the observatory team full control of light levels. A simple switch within the observatory dims the bollards to just 20% output during observation periods, preserving sky quality while maintaining a safe route for pedestrians.
To further enhance campus lighting, AMPERA and PILZEO luminaires were installed across car parks, roads, and footpaths. Both solutions offer a long service life, reduced maintenance, and significant energy savings compared to the previous high-pressure sodium lamps used — delivering improved safety and strong return on investment.
Through these upgrades, Keele University has strengthened safety and sustainability without compromising its core research activities. The result is a well-lit, environmentally respectful campus that supports both people and purpose.
Lighting the way forward
Urbis Schréder continues to lead the way in connected, sustainable lighting — setting the benchmark for what modern institutions and campus environments can achieve. With their new range of aesthetic solar lighting solutions, the company remains ahead of the competition in both design and innovation. Leading the way others follow.
To find out how Urbis Schréder can support your next project, contact sales@urbis-schreder.com or explore other success stories here.
