Lighting Scheme Guidance for Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 2010 Supplementary Planning Guidance

Transcription

1 Lighting Scheme Guidance for Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 2010 Supplementary Planning Guidance Reena Owen, BSc (Hons), DMS, MCIEH Director of Environment City and County of Swansea. Dinas a Sir Abertawe Published October

2 CONTENTS PAGE 1. INTRODUCTION 7 How to Use This Guide 7 2. POLICY CONTEXT AND ISSUES 10 Requirements of Countryside and Rights of Way Act Planning Policy Wales (PPW) March City & County of Swansea Unitary Development Plan (UDP) 11 Gower AONB Management Plan Lighting in the Countryside: Toward Good Practice (1997) 12 Environmental Health and Safety related policies 12 Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act Case Law ISSUES AND PROBLEMS WITH OBTRUSIVE LIGHT 13 Light Pollution 13 Ecological Issues 12 Landscape Character Issues POLICIES FOR LIGHTING IN THE AONB 15 General Principles 15 Ecological Issues 15 Human Impact 15 Lighting and Ecology 15 Landscape Character 15 Sustainability 15 Guidance for Lighting Design ASSESSMENT OF NEED FOR LIGHTING ON NEW DEVELOPMENT 19 Assessment Tool 19 Assessing the Need for Lighting 20 Initial Scheme Appraisal 20 Type of lighting 21 Consultation 22 Planning Considerations 22 Other Considerations 22 Environmental Considerations 22 Capital Cost Considerations Design Considerations: Landscape and Lighting Planning Applications 22 6 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SPECIFIC TYPES OF SCHEME 24 Curfews and General Points 24 Street Lighting 25 Holiday Caravans/Camp Sites 27 Sports Pitches and Facilities 28 Security Lighting on Buildings in Public Use 29 Car Parks 30 Public Toilets 31 2

3 Farms 32 Community Halls Including Community Council Halls 33 Advertising 34 Amenity Lighting for Important Buildings and Settlements 35 Listed Buildings Petrol Filling Stations

4 APPENDICES Appendix 1: Frequently Asked Questions 39 Appendix 2: Planning Application Supporting Information 42 Appendix 3: Obtrusive Lights, Limits and Guidance 44 Appendix 4: Lamps And Luminaires 46 Appendix 5: Relevant Publications And Standards 49 Appendix 6: Useful Addresses And Contacts 52 Appendix 7: Glossary Of Terms Used In External Lighting 54 Appendix 8: Bibliography 56 Appendix 9: Floodlighting Lottery Sports Fund for Wales Info Guide 57 DIAGRAMS Diagram 1: Gower AONB Boundary Map 9 Diagram 2: Upward Spread of Light 16 Diagram 3: Diagram 4: Angle of Lights Assessment of Need for Lighting TABLES Table 1: ILE Tranquillity Zones 20 Table 2 Obtrusive Light Limitations for Exterior Lighting Installations 21 Table 3: Street And Road Lighting 26 Table 4: Caravan and Camp Sites 27 Table 5: Sports Pitches and Facilities 28 Table 6: Security Lighting on Public Buildings 29 Table 7: Car Parks 30 Table 8: Public Toilets 31 Table 9: Farms 32 Table 10: Community Halls Including Community Council Halls 33 Table 11: Advertising 34 Table 12: Amenity Lighting for Important Buildings and Settlements 35 Table 13: Listed Building Lighting 35 Table 14: Petrol Filling Stations 37 Table 15: Checklist for Planning Application Supporting Information 42 Table 16: Obtrusive Lights, Limits and Guidance 44 Table 17: Selection of Street Lighting Classes in BS : Table 18: General Lamp Types and Characteristics 46 Table 19: General Luminaire Types and Characteristics 47 Table 20: Relevant Publications and Standards 49 4

5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This document has been largely based on the following documents: Countryside Commission(now Natural England)/DoE (1997) Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice Institute of Lighting Engineers (2005) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light; Institution of Lighting Engineers (2000) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Light Pollution Huntingdonshire District Council Supplementary Planning Guidance: External Artificial Lighting. Other sources have been acknowledged in the text. 5

6 It is spring, moonless night in the small town, starless and bible-black, the cobble streets silent and the hunched, courters -and-rabbits wood limping invisible down to the sloe black, slow, black, crow black, fishing boat-bobbing sea. (Dylan Thomas, Under Milk Wood, 1963) 6

7 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 The aim of this document is to provide general advice on the use of outdoor lighting in the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (see Diagram 1) and to act as supplementary planning guidance when planning permission is required. The Gower AONB Management Plan was published in 2006 in accordance with the requirements of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act It contains a theme related to tranquillity which includes light pollution. Objective 24 of the Plan states to prepare and publish a guide for new lighting for domestic, commercial and industrial premises, and highways While it is recognised that decisions on planning applications must have regard to the economic and social well being of the area, these decisions in the AONB should favour conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty of the AONB. There should not be a presumption that any lighting on new development is necessary. Light which is excessive, energy inefficient or badly designed can have a negative impact upon the special qualities of the AONB and its tranquillity. Sky glow reduction and energy conservation are therefore important considerations for local authority planners. Furthermore the British Astronomical Society through its Campaign for Dark Skies claims that less than 10% of the UK population can see the beauty of a natural night sky full of stars The document encompasses all lighting installations produced at a level above that of basic DIY home improvements/ domestic garden lighting. Domestic DIY lighting will rarely constitute development of the sort dealt with here, though all AONB residents are encouraged to consider how their use of lighting in home and garden impacts on the AONB as a place of natural beauty. The guidance also encourages lighting installations which deliver maximum energy-efficiency, and minimum light spill and intensity so as to retain the dark skies which are important to tranquillity. 1.4 The guidance is particularly relevant when the scale and nature of the lighting scheme requires engineering, architectural, or lightingspecialist advice. 1.5 How to Use This Guide Developers and land and property owners considering new lighting schemes or alterations to existing installations are encouraged to use this guide to develop their schemes. Wherever possible the aim should 1 7

8 be to follow the principles set out in this document. If a scheme seems not to be covered by the guidance please seek advice from the Planning Services Section within the City and County of Swansea. 1.6 The document summarises relevant policy and common problems; provides a method of assessment for various lighting schemes; and sets out recommendations for a variety of lighting requirements for given purposes and locations within the AONB. For domestic properties this guidance document should be read in conjunction with A Design Guide for Householder Development. 2 The appendices provide a more detailed breakdown of relevant technical information and frequently asked questions. The City and County of Swansea as Local Planning Authority will refer to this guide in assessing development proposals involving lighting schemes within the AONB which require planning permission. 2 A Design Guide for Householder Development-City and County of Swansea June Available from Planning Services and at 8

9 DIAGRAM 1: GOWER AONB BOUNDARY MAP 9

10 2.0 POLICY CONTEXT AND ISSUES The relevant national policy relating to lighting issues is contained in the following documents: 2.1 Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 S84 (4) of the CROW Act requires local planning authorities to take all such action as appears to them expedient for the purposes of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of an area of outstanding natural beauty. S85 General duty of public bodies: (1) In exercising or performing any functions in relation to, or so as to affect, land in an area of outstanding natural beauty, a relevant authority shall have regard to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the area of outstanding natural beauty. S89 (1) places a duty on public bodies to prepare a management plan which formulates their policy for the management of their area of outstanding natural beauty and for the carrying out of their functions in relation to it. 2.2 Planning Policy Wales (PPW) 3 This states that Development Plan policies and development control decisions affecting AONBs should favour conservation of natural beauty, although it will also have regard to the economic and social well-being of the areas development plan policies and development control decisions should give great weight to conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of these areas. The duty to have regard to National Park and AONB purposes applies to activities affecting these areas, whether those activities lie within or outside the designated areas Local planning authorities should adopt policies for lighting, including the control of light pollution, in their development plans. 3 Welsh Assembly Government (June 2010) Planning Policy Wales 10

11 Local authorities can attach conditions to planning permissions for new developments that include the design and operation of lighting systems (for example, requiring energy-efficient design) and prevent light pollution. 2.3 City and County of Swansea Unitary Development Plan (UDP) The UDP was adopted by the City & County of Swansea in November It replaced the previous development plan and its constituent components The relevant policy is Policy EV40 Air, Noise and Light Pollution. It states: Development proposals will not be permitted that would cause or result in unacceptable harm to health, local amenity or natural heritage, the historic environment or landscape character because of significant levels of air, noise or light pollution The policy amplification states: Light pollution can have a harmful effect on the amenity of neighbouring land uses, traffic safety and the natural environment. However, lighting can also help prevent crime and the fear of crime and facilitate greater use of sport and recreational areas. A balance therefore needs to be struck, and, where necessary, conditions will be attached to planning permissions to ensure that the design and operation of lighting systems are satisfactory and or to prevent light pollution. 2.4 Gower AONB Management Plan Under the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000 S.89 (2) the City and County of Swansea has a duty to prepare a management plan for the Gower AONB which formulates their policy for the management of the area of outstanding natural beauty and for the carrying out of their functions in relation to it'. 4 The plan was adopted by the Council in July The plan identifies the special qualities of the AONB and sets out a series of objectives, policies and actions to protect and manage these special qualities. It contains the following theme, objective and policies: Theme 6: Tranquillity A landscape where tranquillity can still be enjoyed free from noise and visual intrusion. A landscape where the beauty of the starlit sky can still be appreciated Objective 24: To prepare and publish a guide for new lighting for domestic, commercial and industrial premises and highways by Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 s89 (2) 11

12 based on the DOE and Countryside Commission Guide produced in 1997 Policies T1: Conserve and enhance tranquillity T3: Promote measures to reduce sky glow Other related guidance on the subject of lighting also exists and serves to illustrate best practice: 2.5 Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice (1997) Sound development plan policy is a prerequisite to effective development control. There are 2 key considerations that should guide development plan policy on lighting in the countryside: - the importance of countryside character - the need to minimise the use of lighting and its impacts Local plan policies offer the greatest scope to influence and control development proposals with lighting implications at the planning stage 2.6 Environmental Health and Safety related policies Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 Under sections 102 and 103 of the Act, which amend sections 79, 80 and 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, obtrusive lighting from artificial light now constitutes a statutory nuisance, as clarified by Welsh Assembly Government Guidance produced in January The guidance establishes that there is now an additional duty on local authorities to check their areas periodically for statutory nuisances of this kind. 2.7 Case Law A number of recent decisions have set potential precedents for the implementation of the Act. The recent appeal decision Hall and Woodhouse Ltd v Isle of Wight (AONB) Council (02/11/2005) within the Isle of Wight AONB established that on the balance of development policies and guidelines in place, preservation of the tranquil, dark skies character of the area was the more important planning consideration. The proposed lighting scheme was deemed excessive and failed. 5 Countryside Commission/DoE (1997) Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice 12

13 3. ISSUES AND PROBLEMS WITH OBTRUSIVE LIGHT 3.1 The issues and problems with obtrusive light can be classified under three categories: human impact, ecological issues and landscape character issues. 3.2 Light pollution is a general term which refers to the effect of overlighting resulting from poorly designed lighting schemes and excessive levels of light. It can be subdivided into 3 categories: a) Sky Glow the glow caused by a scattering of artificial light by dust particles and water droplets in the sky. The cumulative glow of artificial lighting, combined with mist or a polluted atmosphere, may be far stronger than moonlight and may obliterate views of the starstudded night skies, disturbing rural tranquillity. Orange sodium light in particular blurs the moonlight, and prevents appreciation of the countryside at night. b) Glare uncomfortable brightness of a light source when viewed against a darker background. The effect can bring momentary blindness and bring safety risks for drivers moving rapidly from dark areas to relatively bright ones. c) Light trespass spill of light beyond the boundary of the property on which a light is located. It upsets the balance of exterior lighting within an area and may cause particular anxiety when it impinges directly on the home and destroys its sense of privacy. 3.3 Ecological Issues Little is known of what effect increased lighting levels in hours of darkness has upon the ecology of the AONB. There is some evidence to suggest that nocturnal insects such as moths, and foraging mammals may be affected, and the reproduction cycle of some birds, and of short-day plants 6. These could have clear and potentially crucial adverse effects on the whole ecosystem of Gower Bats are considered to be particularly sensitive to changes in lighting, and if it is clear, or highly likely that a potential development is on, or adjacent to roosts, established bat crossings and dark corridors e.g. hedges 7, lighting should be avoided 8 9. Brown long eared bats and horseshoe bat species are particularly sensitive. 6 Outen, AR (1994) The possible Ecological Implications of Artificial Lighting, Hertfordshire Environmental Records Centre 7 Advice can be obtained from: The Bat Conservation Trust ( CCW (contact no ) 8 Statutory reference: s9 and Schedule 5 (protected animals) Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981; 13

14 3.3.3 Therefore, the advice of an ecologist should always be sought when planning lighting in the countryside. 3.4 Landscape Character Issues New lighting should always take into account the nature of the landscape character of the area in which it is situated. A remote, dark, protected landscape will have a character completely different to the character of a village with street lighting. The impact will vary accordingly. 9 Schedule 2 The Conservation (National Habitats etc) Regulations 1994 (EU leg), which can make intrusive lighting to bats a prosecutable offence. 14

15 4. POLICIES FOR LIGHTING IN THE AONB 4.1 General Principles for Lighting on Gower This section sets out the City and County of Swansea s principles and policies for lighting schemes in the AONB based on the preceding section. It is recommended that these are followed when designing lighting schemes Human Impact Whilst lights are desirable for security, night working, advertising, road safety and general highway lighting, within Gower AONB lighting should be minimised as far as is possible to alleviate the aforementioned negative impacts to both residents and visitors. With care, overspill and detrimental visual impact can be avoided Lighting and Local Ecology The precautionary principle should be applied in terms of the impact lighting may have upon the area s delicate balance of ecology. In summary, the absence of adequate scientific information about negative impact of lighting appropriate measures should be used to mitigate against the potential adverse impact on the ecology Landscape Character Light pollution affects the sensory perception of the landscape and its character. Developers should be sensitive to this and adapt the nature of their lighting accordingly taking account of the current level of artificial light. Again the precautionary principle should be applied in terms of the impact lighting may have upon landscape character Sustainability This should be a primary consideration when assessing lighting developments and applying the general principles of this document Overall any lighting scheme needs to be designed to minimise its impact and sky glow effect so as to not detract from the ability to appreciate the dark starlit night sky. 4.2 Guidance for Lighting Design The Institute of Lighting Engineers (ILE) has produced a number of publications to inform the design of lighting systems Institute of Lighting Engineers (2005) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light; Institution of Lighting Engineers (2000) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Light Pollution 15

16 4.2.2 Lighting schemes submitted for planning permission will normally be expected to demonstrate that they comply with the ILE s guidance. Essentially this guidance states that: LP1 LP2 LP3 Schemes should aim to keep the brightness and extent of lighting to the minimum necessary. Lights should be switched off when not required for safety, security or enhancement of the night-time scene. To this end, it is advised that within the AONB non-essential lighting e.g. sports floodlighting should be switched off between no later than hours, and dawn. Schemes should use specifically designed lighting equipment that minimises the upward spread of light near to the horizontal (Diagram 2). Within the AONB, lighting above the horizontal will not be permitted unless a legitimate reason for it can be presented. Diagram 2: Upward Spread of Light Source: ILE (2005) The use of luminaries with double-asymmetric beams designed so that the front glazing is kept at or near parallel to the surface being lit will assist in the reduction of glare provided the units are correctly aimed (Diagram 3). 16

17 Modern well-controlled projector-type lights, which can be aimed very precisely, can give an excellent cut-off beyond the lit area so reducing spill light and glare. LP4 Glare should be kept to a minimum by ensuring that the main angle of all lights directed towards any potential observer is kept below 70 o (Diagram 3) which will ensure minimisation of lightspill to the greatest practical extent possible. For a list of luminaries along with recommendations see Appendix 4. Diagram 3: Angle of Lights Source: ILE (2005) Higher mounting lights allow lower main beam angles, which can assist in reducing glare and sky glow, though this must be balanced with considerations of the intrusive appearance of over-high light columns. LP5 LP6 The lights used should be the most efficient taking into account cost, energy use, colour rendering and the purpose of the lighting scheme required. It is recommended that the energy efficiency of the lighting type is considered first as a priority and that other important factors such as colour rendering (whiter light reduces sky glow) and maintenance costs are also weighed up. There is a list of suggested lighting types in Appendix 4. Both fluorescent and high pressure mercury lamps are used as a replacement to tungsten in situations where energy savings and a longer lamp life are required. They produce a white light and have good colour rendering properties. The lighting should have the minimum possible impact on surrounding dwellings. This involves ensuring no glare or light trespass, and attempting to design lamps and luminaires which are in-keeping with the character of the nearby dwellings. 17

18 LP7 Within the AONB, there is a need for a more unified approach to lighting. Essentially, there should be evidence that the local landscape character has influenced the scale, style and form of the lighting development. Wherever lighting can be blended in with buildings, or trees and other such vegetation in terms of colour and screening from sky glow, this should be done. Vegetation can be planted for this purpose, to the extent that such planting reflects the landscape character of the area. However, such an approach would be inappropriate, for example, on open common land where there is little or no tall vegetation. Design details such as the colour of lighting columns or the precise form of earthworks can have a significant influence on the quality and overall impact of the scheme Lighting schemes will be expected to comply with the detailed recommendations set out in Section 6 regarding specific types of lighting development. Where more than one type of lighting is being used as part of the development, each element of lighting will need to comply with the specific relevant guidance, unless this would produce an excessive and inefficient overall solution. 18

19 5. ASSESSMENT OF NEED FOR LIGHTING ON NEW DEVELOPMENT 5.1 Assessment Tool It is recommended that the assessment tool used by Natural England (formerly the Countryside Commission) be applied for schemes in Gower AONB when a planning application is submitted. It is illustrated by Diagram 4 below: Diagram The Council as local planning authority will use this tool in assessing the lighting aspects of all proposed developments within the AONB. When designing a lighting scheme on Gower, it is recommended that this assessment procedure is followed, as planning permission will usually be required for such developments. The following paragraphs expand on the considerations in the above diagram. 19

20 5.2. Assessing the Need for Lighting The following questions should be addressed: (i) Could the development proceed without lighting? Consider whether it will be essential to the safety, security or viability of the development. (ii) Will the advantages of lighting outweigh any disadvantages? e.g. the environmental, capital and maintenance costs. (iii) Are there alternatives to lighting? e.g. improved site layout or use of security measures other than lighting. 5.3 Initial Scheme Appraisal A lighting scheme will need to be appraised initially by taking into account its location, its purpose and its impact on the environment Location- The Institution of Lighting Engineers (ILE) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light (2005) document contains a hierarchy that allows the landscape of the UK to be divided into zones according to the current degree of tranquillity normally encountered in each area. The zone an area is classified into will determine the permissible degree of illumination in the area. TABLE 1: ILE TRANQUILLITY ZONES E1: Intrinsically dark landscape E2: Low district brightness areas E3: Medium district brightness areas E4: High District brightness areas National Parks, AONBs etc Rural, small village, or relatively dark urban locations Small town centres or urban locations Town/city centres with high levels of night time activity Source: Institution of Lighting Engineers (2005) Guidance notes for the reduction of Obtrusive light p This is a notional division, but one which the ILE has used to present their recommended guidelines in terms of limiting maximum percentage sky glow upward light radiation (ULR), limiting light trespass into windows and source intensity in lux. The following table expands on this and should be read in conjunction with Table 1 above. 20

21 TABLE 2 Obtrusive Light Limitations Required for Exterior Lighting Installations Environ Sky Glow Light Trespass Source Intensity Building - mental ULR [Max %] (into windows) Ev [Lux] I [kcd] Illuminance Pre-curfew Zone Precurfew Postcurfew Precurfew Postcurfew Average, L [cd/m 2 ] E * E E E Source: Institution of Lighting Engineers (2005) Guidance notes for the reduction of Obtrusive light p3 * - from public road lighting installations only Upward Light ratio of the Installation (ULR) = Maximum permitted % of luminaire flux for the total installation that goes directly into the sky Vertical Illuminance in Lux (Ev) = measured flat on the glazing at the centre of the window Light Intensity in Cd (candelas) (I) Illuminance in Cd/m 2 Curfew = the time after which stricter requirements for the control of obtrusive light will apply (23.00 hours applies to all non-essential lighting in the AONB) Applying this guidance, the entire Gower AONB will be classed as EZ 1, with some degree of flexibility for the larger village centres being relaxed to E2 standards (i.e. Reynoldston; Bishopston; Llanrhidian; Oxwich; Mumbles; Langland) In E1, lighting schemes located, near areas of conservation importance or heritage interest will be permitted only in exceptional circumstances. In E2, a lighting scheme will need to demonstrate that it is the absolute minimum lighting necessary for its purposes Type of lighting- It is necessary to clarify the purpose of the lighting, the potential users, and details of the extent to which the lighting will be used (in terms of times and space). Specific information for each type of scheme is detailed further in section 6. 21

22 5.3.6 Consultation- Those preparing a lighting scheme, where planning consent is required, are advised to consult with neighbours before submitting a scheme Planning Considerations In planning terms the main issue for consideration will be the impact of any proposed lighting scheme on the natural beauty of the AONB The policy set out in the Swansea UDP and the more detailed guidance contained in this document will form the basis on which planning applications for proposed lighting schemes will be determined. It is also recommended that this guidance is used even when a planning application is not required Other Considerations Environmental Considerations- As mentioned before, issues to be examined include the direct effect on the ecology of the immediate area around the scheme, and also an assessment of the degree of impact the lighting will have upon Gower s dark skies Capital Cost Considerations- The capital costs of the type of lighting being used, and the cost of future maintenance of that lighting will need to be considered along with the energy efficiency. More detailed information is contained in Appendix Design Considerations: Landscape and Lighting The following questions need to be answered in conjunction with the tables in Appendix 3. - Has the character of the landscape been assessed, and has the lighting scheme proposed taken account of this character? - Are the lamps and luminaries being used appropriate for the landscape character and do they conform to general planning policies regarding lighting? 5.7. Planning Applications The information you will be required to submit with your planning application is contained in Appendix 2 which should be read in conjunction with the preceding paragraphs. 22

23 You can hear the dew falling and the hushed town breathing. Only your eyes are unclosed, to see the black and folded town fast, and slow, asleep. And you alone can hear the invisible starfall, the darkest-before-dawn minutely dewgrazed stir of the black, dab-filled sea (Dylan Thomas, Under Milk Wood, 1963). 23

24 6. 0 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SPECIFIC TYPES OF SCHEME 6.1 This section amplifies the general principles already outlined and sets out recommended standards for various types of lighting scheme based on existing BS Standards, ILE guidance and best practice. Developers will be expected to comply with these standards and property managers will be encouraged to amend existing schemes which do not comply. Curfews and General Points In many instances there is no need for lights to operate all night. Therefore, it is proposed that when planning permission is required and granted, curfews on the use of lighting will be imposed as a condition of the planning permission. This will reduce the extent of light pollution as well as saving energy and money for the owners of lights The recommendations for curfews are contained in the following sections which refer to specific types of lighting. They represent what is felt to be appropriate after extensive research and consultation, particularly bearing in mind the sustainability principle (as laid out in above), and also balancing this against economic needs and health and safety issues The British Standards (BS) documents referred to in the following sections below are recommendations of good practice. These recommended levels take account of the liability for accidents associated with lighting or the lack of it. 24

25 6.2 Street Lighting Street lighting in the AONB is the joint responsibility of Western Power Distribution and the City and County of Swansea. The code of practice currently used by the City and County of Swansea is BS EN : The AONB environment and low traffic flow corresponds to the lighting classification E1/E2 and to S5 light fittings. An S5 class lamp will have a lighting level of between 3 to 4.5 lux average, with a minimum level of 0.6 Lux (see Appendix 4 Table 19). A flat glass lantern with an inclination of 0 o post top mounted onto a 6 metre lighting column keeps to a minimum any light pollution. In addition, the use of a white light which has good colour rendering properties will reduce sky glow For road lighting installations, light near to and above the horizontal should be minimised to reduce glare and visual intrusion (note ULRs in Table 2 above). Where necessary for safety reasons, a solution appropriate for the AONB involves low level lighting concentrated around roundabouts and junctions at a height of 1.5 metres above the road surface or the minimum height required to illuminate essential road signs. The height of the lighting will be determined by the safe height of the sign. It is recommended that the bottom of the sign face 25

26 should be 2.1 metres but should be higher where cyclists or horse riders use paths or footways. If there is a wish to light a section of road in order to reduce accidents, then the lighting should be placed only at the strategic places where there is the highest likelihood of accidents. The designs should if possible meet British Standard s requirements It is recognised that lighting is a quickly developing field of technology, so the recommended minimum requirements in Table 3 should be used as general guidance and may have to be revised in due course. Recent advances, for example, in LED solid-state lighting technology, offer the potential for more environmentally friendly and economically efficient lighting. TABLE 3: STREET AND ROAD LIGHTING Condition Minimum Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk dawn Light levels lux average allowed on all B- roads. Column Heights Specification and colour treatment for lamps and luminaires The need for full horizontal cut-off Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects 6 metre maximum Reflector optic and flat glass (HCO). e.g. Fluorescent or high pressure sodium lamps. It is worth considering that white light allows for a lower lux level to be used safely. Yes Minimum allowed Not necessary 26

27 6.3 Holiday caravan/ camp sites The maximum recommended lighting for holiday caravan and camp sites is a class lower than that for street lighting. (It should be noted that residential caravan sites would be expected to follow the same recommendations as ordinary residential streets and minor roads). Class S6 means that for all lighting developments, careful planning is required to focus lighting where it is most needed, to avoid exceeding the limits set The lighting should, if possible, focus more in the centre of the site than along its perimeter. One recommendation would be to line the pathways with lights where required to guide guests to facilities such as shower blocks and toilets Low level sheltered bollard lighting with downward facing reflectors should be sufficient in most parts of the site. Appropriate landscaping in association with good lighting can help improve safety whilst reducing light pollution, and providing a more energy efficient site Roads, footpaths, gateways and fire fighting equipment in the site all need to be suitably lit in accordance with licences issued under Section 3 of the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, but the onus is on site owners to demonstrate that the lighting used has not exceeded the minimum necessary for safety and practicality. Other areas not specified above would not be required to have extra lighting. TABLE 4: CARAVAN AND CAMP SITES Condition Hours of illumination Light levels Column Heights Specification and colour treatment for lamps and luminaires The need for full horizontal cut-off Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects Minimum Requirement At least 50% of the lighting on site to abide by the hours curfew In line with S6 class requirements: Average 2-3 lux Minimum 0.6 lux Restricted to a maximum height of 1.2m Reflector optic and flat glass (HCO). Metal halide or high pressure sodium lamps. A white light source (RA >60 should be used) Yes Minimal allowed Essential 27

28 6.4 Sports Pitches and Facilities For sports lighting installations the use of luminaires with double- or multi-angle asymmetric beams designed so that the front glazing is kept at or near parallel to the surface being lit should, if correctly aimed, ensure minimum obtrusive light. More detailed advice is contained in the Sports Council for Wales information sheet in Appendix Floodlighting for sports facilities in the AONB should be switched off by hours. In most cases it will also be beneficial to use as high a mounting height as possible in order to minimise the number of total lights required, but importantly giving due regard simultaneously to the daytime appearance of the installation. Lighting should be as directional as possible Where golf driving ranges are concerned, however, illumination need not be as high and the light is only required over a limited horizontal plane. Ground mounted luminaires are advised. TABLE 5: SPORTS PITCHES AND FACILITIES Condition Hours of illumination Light levels Column Heights Specification and colour treatment for lamps and luminaires The need for full horizontal cut-off Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects Requirement Dusk not later than hours. Curfew Varied High enough that excess lighting requirements are minimised. Simple or preferably multi-angle asymmetric beam luminaire floodlights Yes None post-curfew allowed Where possible 28

29 6.5 Security Lighting on Buildings in Public Use Passive infra red detectors should control lighting. Sensors that can be tripped by animals or road or footway users should be avoided. - Lighting should be directed down to illuminate its target and mounted below the property height so as to reduce light spill. - An integrated approach to security lighting, balancing levels of light with other lighting in and around the site to avoid glare and light spill as well as dark spots should be adopted. TABLE 6: SECURITY LIGHTING ON PUBLIC BUILDINGS Condition Hours of illumination Light levels Column Heights Specification and colour treatment for lamps and luminaires The need for full horizontal cut-off Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects Requirement Reduced in intensity wherever possible post hours Domestic av. Illuminance of 5 lux. Overall uniformity of 4 lux. Mounted on walls of buildings. On fences, a limit of 1.5 2m height A 150W (2000 lumen) tungsten halogen lamp is sufficient. Post-curfew a compact fluorescent. Asymmetrical HCO beam required. For all-night lighting at low brightness use a compact fluorescent porch light of 9W (600 lumen). Yes directed down Should be kept to a minimum Screening from buildings and vegetation where possible 29

30 6.6 Car Parks The lighting of car parks will depend on their function. To serve larger village centres or sports facilities, a degree of lighting is permitted, which must adhere to curfew rules. All other car parks are expected to have little or no permanent lighting installations, especially in exposed or highly visible locations. TABLE 7: CAR PARKS Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk hours. Curfewed Light levels In accordance with S6 class lighting 11 Column Heights Up to the height of the surrounding buildings/ vegetation. Specification and colour treatment for Reflector optic and flat glass lamps and luminaires asymmetric (HCO). Metal halide or high pressure sodium lamps. The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects None post-curfew allowed Where possible 11 As in BS 5489, Part 1 30

31 6.7 Public Toilets TABLE 8: PUBLIC TOILETS Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk Closing hours (not past 23.00). Curfew until re-opening hours (not before 06.00). Light levels S6 class 12 Column Heights Attached to building. Fixed at low levels. Specification and colour treatment for Reflector optic and flat glass (HCO). lamps and luminaires e.g. Fluorescent or Metal Halide lamp. LED recommended here. The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects None post-curfew allowed Where possible 12 As in BS 5489, Part 1 31

32 6.8 Farms Lighting on farm premises should adhere to the following principles: Mount lights below the roof height of buildings and direct light downwards, to where it is needed. As far as possible, position lights so that they are shielded by buildings and are not visible from the surrounding countryside It is accepted that at certain times of the year such as lambing and calving seasons and at harvest time, that lighting is required for health and safety reasons during the curfew time. These occasions should be treated as exceptions. TABLE 9: FARMS Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk (curfew ) hours Light levels S4 class prior to curfew Column Heights Lights mounted below roof heights Specification and colour treatment for lamps and luminaires Reflector optic and flat glass (HCO). Metal halide or high pressure sodium lamps The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects None post-curfew allowed Very important 32

33 6.9 Community Halls including Community Council Halls TABLE 10: COMMUNITY HALLS INCLUDING COMMUNITY COUNCIL HALLS Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk hours (curfew ) Light levels S6 Class Column Heights Luminaires must be below roof height and low level bulkhead lights should be used where possible Specification and colour treatment for Sparsely spread traditional style lamps and luminaires lantern with high performance optic. The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings None post-curfew allowed Retention of screening vegetation/ Where possible use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects 33

34 6.10 Advertising Planning Guidance (Wales), Technical Advice Note (Wales) 7, Outdoor Advertisement Control November 1996 states that in National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and conservation areas, stricter blanket controls than usual apply to the display of advertisements which do not normally require the local planning authority's express consent Gower AONB has been designated an area of special control under the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations 1992 and this has the effect of imposing stricter controls on the display of most advertisements. As these vary according to the type of advertisement advice should be sought from the Planning Services section of the City & County of Swansea before proceeding. Where consent is required the following paragraphs will apply. Where these are tourist related signs the Council s supplementary planning guidance will also apply When lighting vertical structures such as advertising signs the light should be directed downwards where possible. If there is no alternative to lighting then shields, baffles and louvres will help reduce light spill around and over the structure. TABLE 11: ADVERTISING Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk hours (curfew ) Light levels Lighting from advertisements cannot exceed 100 candelas per m 2 Column Heights Mount above the advertisements. Specification and colour treatment for Symmetrical projector beam lamps and luminaires luminaire. Metal halide lamp. Use of baffles, shields and louvres The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects None post-curfew allowed Where possible 13 See Advertisement Policy in Gower: Tourist Related signs within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, City & County of Swansea 34

35 6.11 Amenity lighting for important buildings and settlements Lighting within villages, other than street lighting, is generally for safety purposes, or sometimes to enhance the appearance of key historic buildings. Such lighting should adhere to the following principles: In all villages and rural residential areas, consider whether lighting is required at all, and where it will be most effective. Consider views from surrounding countryside, and avoid a line of lights defining the edge of the village. TABLE 12: AMENITY LIGHTING FOR IMPORTANT BUILDINGS AND SETTLEMENTS Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk hours (curfew ) Light levels 5 lux max. Permitted in village centres. Otherwise S5-class lighting should be followed along village roads. Column Heights Attached to buildings wherever possible to reduce clutter within the centres. Specification and colour treatment for Sparsely spread traditional style lamps and luminaires lantern with high performance optic or reflector optic and flat glass (HOCK). Fluorescent or high pressure sodium lamps The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects Minimal allowed Where possible 35

36 6.12 Listed buildings Listed buildings require listed building consent for any lighting that might materially alter the character of the building. The following principles should be considered when devising lighting schemes for listed buildings: The type and size of lights should be unobtrusive so as not to detract from the architectural character Ensure lighting is directed only at the structure, using baffles and shielding where needed, and minimise up lighting. Consider the reflectance value of the materials being illuminated in terms of sky glow. Lights should be low key and simple TABLE 13: LISTED BUILDING LIGHTING Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk hours (curfew ) Light levels 0 candelas is recommended, but in exceptional cases buildings lit at a level of 5 candelas will be considered by planning services. Column Heights Lighting directed only at structure, preferably downwards. Specification and colour treatment for Use discretion in terms of colour and lamps and luminaires style, but ensure the luminaires minimise up lighting and make use of baffles and shielding. The need for full horizontal cut-off Yes Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects None post-curfew allowed Where possible 36

37 6.13 Petrol Filling Stations Lights on petrol filling station canopies would not normally be permitted However, if advertisement consent is given the following should apply: - Canopy lights should be positioned to avoid light spill from the sides of the canopy. - Avoid the use of dish diffusers, which cause additional glare. - Advertising must be restricted as in 6.11 and the need for illumination should be carefully considered. TABLE 14: PETROL FILLING STATIONS Condition Requirement Hours of illumination Dusk Closing hours (curfew ) Light levels Within the canopy, up to 150 lux is allowed for safety purposes. However, immediately surrounding the canopy edges the light should reach no more than 10% of this figure. Column Heights Canopy lights positioned to prevent light spill from the sides of the canopy. Specification and colour treatment for lamps and luminaires The need for full horizontal cut-off Levels of impact on nearby dwellings Retention of screening vegetation/ use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects Simple or preferably multi-angle asymmetric beam luminaire floodlights Yes None after closing time allowed Where possible 37

38 APPENDICES 38

39 APPENDIX 1 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q. I want to put lights on the back of my house. How does this document affect me? A. - If the lights form part of a development requiring planning permission, this document will be applied as part the assessment of the planning application. Otherwise, you are still encouraged to use the document as useful guidance to help you consider how the use of lighting in your home and garden impacts on the AONB as a place of natural beauty. Q. How do I know if the document applies to my lighting scheme? A. If your lighting scheme is located within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as delineated in Diagram 1 on page 8 in this document, then it applies to you. However, lighting on a scale of moderate or above in close proximity to the AONB can have an equally detrimental effect upon Gower s dark skies. Therefore, lighting schemes being designed in close proximity to the AONB boundary (i.e. within 0.5km) may be subject to the guidelines within this document (this will tend to be dependent upon the scale and nature of the lighting scheme in question). In such cases, the City and County of Swansea as Local Planning Authority will refer to this guide where it is considered appropriate. Q. Could you explain in more detail risks to me of potential liability relating to lighting development in terms of statutory nuisance? A. The statutory nuisance provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 [sections 79, 80 and 82] have been amended by the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 [sections 102 and 103] so that artificial light is now included in the list of those things that may be judged to be a statutory nuisance. Statutory nuisance can only be determined by a suitably qualified and authorised officer from a Local Authority. When assessing statutory nuisance a number of factors will be taken into account including: 39

40 1. impact beyond the boundary of the premises from which the alleged nuisance arises i.e. material interference with the enjoyment of property or personal comfort 2. duration 3. frequency 4. nature and character of the local environment 5. motive i.e. whether the alleged nuisance is the result of unreasonable behaviour. 6. whether or not there is an element of sensitivity on the part of the complainant. If a statutory nuisance is determined then an abatement notice, by law, must be served on the person responsible requiring the abatement of the nuisance. Failure to comply with such a notice is a criminal offence and offenders may be taken to court and prosecuted. Further information can be obtained from the guidance document: Statutory Nuisance from Insects and Light 2005 Guidance on sections 101 to 103 of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 [ ance.pdf] If you wish to find out more about nuisance issues you can do so by visiting the City & County of Swansea Pollution Control Division web pages at: If you wish to make a specific enquiry regarding light nuisance you can do so by contacting the Pollution Control Division of the City & County of Swansea: i. tel. no ii. online: pollution@swansea.gov.uk Q. To what extent am I bound to follow the guidelines of this document? A. The document has formal status as supplementary planning guidance (SPG) and will be used by Planning Services to evaluate any lighting schemes which need planning permission or consent under the advertisement regulations. Developers are advised to consider carefully how their lighting scheme complies with the guidelines in this document. 40