New guidance to help protect Dark Skies in South Downs
July 27, 2022
Best practice guidance has been produced by the National Park Authority to help organisers of light festivals and artistic installations.
The advice has been created to help protect the National Park’s Dark Skies, which are so special that they were given international status six years ago.
The simple takeaway message from the report is: The right light, in the right place, at the right time, with the right intensity.
Dan Oakley, Lead Ranger and Dark Skies Lead for the National Park, explained: “Light festivals and illumination events are becoming increasingly common, especially during the winter.
“They offer residents and visitors a unique experience and can transform a location with a magical sense of place and theatricality. Because of their limited operational time, events of this type are not usually subject to planning control and are considered a ‘temporary’ development. As such, their impact on the local environment is rarely considered.
“The type of lighting used at these events are highly prominent and can be visible for many miles around the site, thereby reducing dark sky quality. Bright, powerful lights can be installed with little regard for dark skies or any basic lighting impact assessment.
“As a result of the growing popularity of these events for commercial, promotional or creative purposes, we’re seeking some best practice principles within this guidance for artists, creative commissioners and event organisers to follow. This is not about banning lighting, but simply choosing the right light for the right place and time.”
The National Park is one of 20 International Dark Sky Reserves in the world. The designation recognises it as one of the best places globally to stargaze, as well as underlining the biodiversity benefits that having a dark sky brings for a range of animals and plants.
The guidance does not aim to ban Christmas lighting and will not cover domestic Christmas lights or Local Authority Christmas lights mounted on streetlights.
We will give advice and consultation on any aspect of lighting design for events, festivals and creative commissions. Please contact us on 01730 814810 or email info@southdowns.gov.uk