Awyr Dywyll Môn / Anglesey Dark Skies
Matthew Parkes
June 2014
Prepared on behalf of:
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Crynodeb Gweithredol
Mae problem llygredd golau wedi gwaethygu ar Ynys Môn dros yr hanner can mlynedd
diwethaf. Ychydig iawn o wybodaeth sydd ar gael am effaith y broblem newydd hon. Er
hynny, mae’r gwaith ymchwil a gynhaliwyd ledled y byd i’r effeithiau cymdeithasol,
amgylcheddol ac economaidd yn un damniol. Mae angen mynd i’r afael â phroblem llygredd
golau Môn cyn iddo fynd o ddrwg i waeth. Mae eisoes yn debygol o gael effaith ar iechyd y
cyhoedd, defnydd ynni a lles amgylcheddol (gan gynnwys sawl rhywogaeth sydd ar y rhestr
goch), yn ogystal ag effeithiau eang eraill.
Byddai lleihau llygredd golau, trwy gyflwyno deddfwriaeth, codi ymwybyddiaeth y cyhoedd
a gwneud mwy o ddewisiadau deallus ar ddefnyddio golau yn gyhoeddus ac yn breifat, yn
braenaru’r tir ar gyfer sicrhau bod Ynys Môn, neu ran o’r ynys, yn cymryd camau at gael ei
chydnabod yn warchodfa awyr dywyll ryngwladol. Gallai’r dynodiad arbennig hwn ddod â
manteision di-ri i’r ynys, gan gynnwys y posibilrwydd o gynyddu lefelau twristiaeth y tu
allan i’r tymor gwyliau arferol, a fyddai’n hwb gwerthfawr i economi Môn. Byddai cyflwyno
deddfwriaeth llygredd golau hefyd yn diogelu’r ardal rhag un o effeithiau mwyaf niweidiol y
cynnydd mewn poblogaeth.
Executive Summary
Light pollution is a problem that has been increasing rapidly on Anglesey over the past 50
years. As a new pollution concern there is relatively little information on its impacts.
However, the research that has been carried out worldwide into the social, environmental and
economic impacts has been damning. Anglesey’s light pollution problem needs to be
addressed before it becomes a greater issue. It already is likely to be impacting upon public
health, energy consumption and environmental wellbeing (including several red listed
species), as well as various other widespread impacts.
Decreasing light pollution through implementing legislation, increasing public awareness and
making more informed lighting choices both publically and privately, would pave the way for
Anglesey or an area on the island to make steps to become recognised as an international dark
sky place. This designation could provide several benefits to the island, including potentially
large increases in the levels of off season tourism that would provide valuable input into the
islands’ economy. With increasing global populations, introducing light pollution legislation
would also safeguard the area against one of the most deleterious effects of population
increase.
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Contents page
1. Introduction
2. Background
3. Nature of Light Pollution
3.1. Sources
3.2. Astronomical Impacts
3.3. Human Impacts
3.4. Ecological Impacts
3.5. Environmental Impacts
4. Specific Aspects of Light on Anglesey
5. The Costs and Benefits of Reducing Light Pollution
5.1. Economic
5.2. Environmental
6. Assessment of Anglesey’s Options
6.1.Background: the IDA and Standards
6.2. Do Nothing
6.3. IDA DSP Gold
6.4.IDA DSP Silver
6.5. IDA DSP Bronze
7. Conclusions
7.1. Recommendations
8. Appendix
8.1. IDA Communities- Minimum Requirements
8.2. IDA Parks- Minimum Requirements
8.3. IDA Reserves- Minimum Requirements
8.4. Table of Requirements for DSP Gold, Silver and Bronze Designations
8.5. Planning Policies
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8.6. Assessment of Wavelengths
8.7.The Experience of Other Authorities
8.8. Opinions of Local People/ Groups
8.9. Anglesey Highways Lighting Reports
9. Maps
10. References
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1. Introduction
The night sky of Anglesey suffers significant light pollution, both internally generated and
received from adjacent areas of the mainland, but retains some areas of good night skies with
the potential to meet the International Dark-Skies Association “Silver” standard (Rowlands
2015). However, without a concerted efforts to avoid and reduce light pollution, this special
quality of the island will be lost. The purpose of this report is to assess the process of gaining
Dark Skies status on Anglesey. In addition to this, this report identifies the social,
environmental but primarily the economic benefits that reducing light pollution would
provide on Anglesey, in order to garner support from the council, local businesses, local
people and visitors.
In the compilation of this report data has been collected from other authorities which either
already have Dark Skies status or are in the process of trying to attain this designation. Many
of these authorities are national parks or close analogues and are much more readily and
coherently controlled, thus experiences may not be as freely translatable to Anglesey AONB.
Extensive research has been conducted into the costs and benefits of reducing light pollution:
this includes the collection of data on savings from material and energy costs, tourism
impacts, health benefits, wildlife benefits and the impact on crime and accident statistics.
Relevant authorities, businesses and landowners have been contacted in order to gauge their
level of support for a dark skies project on Anglesey. From the collected data a range of
options/ strategies have been devised that Anglesey could implement in order to gain dark
skies status.
The overall aim of a dark skies project would be to reduce the amount of light emitted into
the atmosphere, thus decreasing the amount of artificial illumination it the night sky of the
concerned area (Narisada, Schreuder, 2004).
2. Background
Light pollution is one of the least understood forms of pollution that occur (Longcore, Rich,
2004). Light pollution refers to the excessive or obtrusive artificial light caused by bad
lighting design, the over use of lighting in areas where it is not needed and the improper
usage of lighting where a less disturbing light could be used (Gallaway et.al, 2009).
In many places the loss of the true night sky has been a gradual process and thus has been
relatively unnoticed (Walker, 1973). However several studies have concluded that the loss of
dark skies has had several impacts upon human populations and ecological communities:
many of these disturbances pose significant health and ecological risks. The majority of light
sources are powered through electricity produced through the combustion of fossil fuels, thus
contributing to issues such as global environmental change and pollution.
Many people perceive lighting to be a necessary factor to security and safety issues. This can
lead to misguided opposition against dark sky projects (Northumberland County Council,
2014).
A report was commissioned by Isle of Angelsey County Council to inform the development
of policy on “Dark Skies” (Rowlands 2015); the aims of this were:
1. To provide an objective ‘baseline’ assessment of night sky quality ('darkness') from
multiple sites spanning the island.
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2.
3.
4.
5.
to critically assess simple methods for assessing night sky quality.
To develop a ‘standard method’ for such an assessment
To identify and assess various factors influencing measurements
Where possible, to compare methods and data output with other Dark Sky areas.
.
Measurements of night sky quality at 60 pre-determined locations on Anglesey were
undertaken during clear conditions in early 2015 using a commercially available sky quality
meter. Observations included both overhead (zenith) measurements (as per the International
Dark Sky Association (IDA) standard) and an alternative all-sky measure using zenith and
cardinal points of the sky, as well as subjective assessment by the observer. Results are
presented on the logarithmic scale of magnitude per square arcsecond (mpsas) which uses
the astronomical scale of star brightness or magnitude (in which the higher the number the
dimmer the star), so the higher the mpsas the darker the sky.
Some 75% of the 60 sites surveyed across Anglesey meet the IDA 'Silver' standard (21.00 –
21.74 magnitudes per square arcsecond) at the overhead (zenith) point. These are moderately
dark skies, but with light pollution from the surrounding environment obvious from all sites.
The remaining 25% of sites are of lower, IDA 'Bronze' status (20-20.99mpsas.). These results
are comparable to several existing Dark Sky Parks which have received IDA recognition..
However, the very darkest sites on Anglesey are few in number and have an extremely
limited geographical extent owing to settlements and their lights never being far away. When
measurement of the whole sky (in contrast to zenith readings) is taken however 73% of the 60
Anglesey sites now only reach 'Bronze' level, with only 27% reaching the darker, 'Silver'
level. This measure is probably a better reflection of human experience of the night sky.
Rowlands recommends a number of measures, including:
1. Continued replacement of highway lighting with modern units
2. Implementation and enforcement of lighting planning conditions on all new
developments
3. Engagement with the farming industry to address security lighting standards
4. Integration of policies between agencies and departments to tackle light pollution and
promote dark sky benefits.
5. Declaration of a number of Dark Sky Discovery Sites on the island as a precursor to a
more substantial application for IDA status with the associated commitment to control
and reduction of light pollution. .
3. Nature of Light Pollution
3.1 Sources
Cheap artificial light has revolutionised human life in the past century, enabling activities
dependent in natural light to occur around the clock. But this benefit is not without cost. The
erosion of natural darkness has crept up on us almost without comment. Only recently has the
public at large become aware of this issue. It has been noted that only 2% of Britain’s
population receives a truly dark sky at night, compared to just 60 years ago when the vast
majority of Britain had dark skies (BBC, 2012).
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In recent years there has been a shift from yellow light sources, as seen in sodium street
lamps, to white light sources. It is believed that white light sources can have increased
impacts on light pollution. The increase in impact is noted because of the greater levels of
blue lighting (IDSA, 2010). Blue light has a shorter wavelength (thus higher energy) and
therefore scatters more readily through the atmosphere. The refraction of blue light
wavelengths in daylight are the reason for the appearance of a blue sky, but this scattering is
also one of the primary causes of light pollution at night from artificial light sources (see
appendix for full light source assessment table).
There are three main types of avoidable light pollution; direct upwards light, spill light and
intrusive light (Environmental Protection UK). Direct upwards light is the light that is lost
upwards from a lack of or inadequate light fitting, spill light is light that reaches beyond the
area that it is needed and intrusive light is the result of light fittings being poorly directed
causing light to enter on to other people’s property. Another cause of light pollution is the
light that reflects off the ground from areas that it is needed, this is generally unavoidable;
however reducing the brightness of lighting could reduce the reflection.
Security lighting has been widely acknowledged as a large contributor to light pollution
(Taylor, 2006). Whilst the need to protect homes and other areas of importance is of
paramount concern to most people, there is often improper placing of lighting, leading to
increased directing and reflection of light towards the night sky. It is also noted that many
people choose to install a bulb with a much higher wattage than needed to sufficiently light
the area. This causes an increase in light pollution whilst also increasing the electricity bill. It
has been noted that Anglesey has seen an increase in the levels of agricultural lighting which
also contributes greatly to the light pollution issue on the island
Studies have found that whilst the feeling of safety is increased as a result of security
lighting, the actual outcome of using these lights is less clear (Atkins, Husain, Storey, 1991 &
Smith, 2008). In some cases it is reported that increased lighting can even result in a greater
chance of crime. It has also been noted that improper light usage can result in the obscuring
of the homeowners vision due to increased glare.
Street lighting poses a large obstacle in combating light pollution. Whilst it may provide a
valuable social service in some areas at required times, it is often poorly directed allowing
light to intrude on areas where and when it is not needed. These areas include the night sky,
private property and potential tranquil areas. As well as causing disturbance poor street
lighting also increases costs for the council through energy lost by poor light management.
3.2 Astronomical impacts
Light pollution obscures the night sky, preventing clear viewing of celestial features
including the Milky Way and the Andromeda galaxy. As stated above bluer light sources
cause greater impact upon the visibility of the night sky. On Anglesey this causes problems
for astronomers and casual star gazers alike.
3.3 Human impacts
Light pollution causes a range of impacts on the human population. Whilst light pollution
doesn’t have the same dramatic effect as other pollution events such as smog and radiation
exposure, it has been shown to have several far ranging health and social impacts.
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Dark skies provide a cultural ecosystem service: the economic value of this can be seen
through other dark sky projects across the globe. The ability for someone to look at the same
natural night sky as their ancestors and try to comprehend the sheer scale of the universe is of
incredible importance to many people: many people travel great distances to see such a sight.
Intrusion of artificial light can cause impacts on human health (Chepesiuk, 2009). Disruption
to the circadian rhythm can cause events of insomnia, high blood pressure, diabetes and
research has shown that a decrease in melatonin production as a result of light pollution can
increase cancer risk including breast and colon cancer (Spivey, A 2010).
3.4 Ecological impacts
There are many ways in which light pollution can affect and disrupt wildlife and ecosystems.
There have been documented cases across the globe concerning various species of migratory
birds. In these cases it appeared that bright lights had caused bird population to become
confused, mistaking the artificial lighting sources for various celestial bodies which they use
for navigation. This lead the birds to fly around the light sources for hours until many of the
flock had collapsed from exhaustion (BBC, 2007).This has long been a problem on Bardsey
Island and has required special measures to overcome such as illumination of adjacent refuge
areas for birds.
Artificial light has also been found to affect the mating success of songbird species. It has
been found that the dawn calls of various song birds, including the great tit, the blue tit and
the robin are affected by the distance that a male bird is from an artificial light source. Those
males who reside near a light source often begin their dawn chorus in advance of birds whose
territories are away from light pollution. This led the females of each species to show
preference for the earlier singing male even in cases where the bird in question was a less
desirable mate (Kempenaers et al., 2010).
Blue tits have also been observed to lay their eggs earlier under light pollution conditions
(Kempenaers et al., 2010). It has been noted that this could lead to the high food demand of
the chicks not matching the food availability at the time. It has also been found that the
European blackbird in an habitat effected by light pollution, will produce luteinizing hormone
(responsible for testosterone production and ovulation) earlier in the case of the male, and
decline earlier in the case of the female (Partecke et al., 2004).
Light pollution also has the potential to increase predation success upon various species
(Acharya, Fenton, 1999). Increased night time visibility leads to increased chances of a
predator finding its prey, also increased confusion of nocturnal species with regards to light
sources (e.g. moths being drawn to lights) leads to increased exposure of a prey species to a
potential predator. This could lead to a form of ecosystem instability, where the predator
exhausts its food source leading to a collapse in numbers.
It is a well-known fact that some moth species and various other nocturnal insects are drawn
to artificial light sources. This is due to the way these insects have evolved to navigate using
the angle that they are at compared to the moons light (Rich, Longcore, 2005). The brightness
of artificial light obscures the moonlight and thus confuses the insect’s navigation pattern.
Moths have also been found to have a heightened sensitivity towards lights with a shorter
wavelength spectrum. Larger species of moth in particular are more responsive to this
spectrum of light. There is a possibility that if more artificial lighting is used that produces
the shorter wavelength light, there could be an increased mortality rate of moth species, and
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we could find that an added selection pressure would be present, favouring smaller species.
Many species rely on these large moth species and their caterpillars as a food source. The loss
of moth populations could lead to a knock-on effect higher up the food chain, for example the
European night jar has been noted to be in decline as a direct result of moth species decline
(van Langevelde et al., 2011).
There is evidence to suggest that the use of LED lighting can greatly affect the activity of
slow moving bat species (Stone et al., 2012). In this case study, slow moving species such as
the lesser horseshoe bat, a protected species, were found to avoid areas of artificial light,
causing them to divert from their normal flight paths and take more dangerous routes. It has
been suggested that artificial lighting could be causing the extinction of slow moving bat
species. Lesser horseshoe bats occur in southern Anglesey. As they are highly sesnsitive to
light pollution, dark areas and flight lines are essential to their survival there.
A recent study has shown that reindeer in Norway are able to see ultra violet light. When
foraging around power lines it is possible that they have their vision impaired due to bursts of
UV given off by the cables. This is thought to lead to an increased difficulty in foraging. This
could extend into many other species that sense UV light. This theory could be used to
explain why many species seem to have their habitats fragmented by power lines (Tyler et al
2014). Some metal halide (MH) lamps also give off UV light. As MH lamps are being
increasingly used as street lighting it is possible that they could have wider reaching impacts
upon the local wildlife population similar to the effects that power lines have on reindeer.
Although reindeer are not native to the UK, this study shows how the wide ranging impacts
that light pollution is found to be having on large mammals.
3.5 Environmental impacts
Reducing light pollution through energy efficiency saving methods will subsequently reduce
the Greenhouse Gass (GHG) emissions associated with electricity usage. Reduced GHG
emissions will benefit local and global ecosystems and communities through climate change
mitigation and reduced pollution (IPCC, 2007).
4. Specific Aspects of Light on Anglesey
Rowlands (2015) has measured the scale and distribution of light pollution on Anglesey,
revealing that Anglesey’s light pollution problem stems from several areas. As an island,
Anglesey is subjected to high levels of light pollution from outside sources, such as Bangor,
Caernarfon and even as far away as Dublin. The Anglesey AONB is particularly badly
affected by light pollution. The unique doughnut shape of the AONB means that light
pollution from external sources is particularly bad. Many coastal communities are situated in
or adjacent to the AONB while internal light pollution sources include the A55 corridor, RAF
Valley, Wylfa and population centres i.e. Holyhead, Llangefni and Amlwch have serious
impacts on the protected area. Rowlands also notes the problem of farm security lights which
impact disproportionately on otherwise dark areas of the island. However light pollution is
not localised to these sources: poor lighting design and usage is endemic to the area. On the
Wales Tranquillity map these areas are shown as having lower tranquillity (see appendix).
Indeed, areas with the lowest light pollution ont he island appear to be outside the AONB in
cnetral areas of the island.
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Anglesey council currently controls 11,000 street lamps, however it should be noted that the
A55 lights are not controlled by the council and are thus not included in this figure.
Traditionally on large sections of the island the main street lighting source is a 250W high
pressure sodium (hps) lamp and a 150w hps lamp. These lamps contribute heavily to light
pollution, due to unnecessarily high wattage and lack of shielding. However Anglesey’s
Highways department have already started to implement changes to the islands lighting. The
250W hps lamps are gradually being phased out for 140W Philips Cosmopolis flat glass mh
lamps and the 150W hps lamps are being changed to 90W Cosmopolis flat glass mh lamps.
These lamps and various others also being introduced to Anglesey are more efficient in
energy consumption and contribute to the reduction in light pollution through better targeting
of light. These lights can also be dimmed in conjunction with the Highways departments
dimming policy providing greater savings and increased reduction of light pollution during
dimming hours. Many lights are now being dimmed to 75% output between the hours of
12pm- 6am. Trimming has also been implemented where the lights are switching on later and
switching off earlier in the morning. On Anglesey road sign lighting has been switched to
LED light sources, with only regulatory signs being illuminated and lighting removed from
non-essential sources. On the A55, UK Highways has also made significant improvements,
notably in upgrading the lighting on the Britannia Bridge to low energy, targeted units.The
newly installed road lighting on Anglesey is all below 3000 Kelvin, the International Dark
Sky Association (IDSA) regulations require all lighting to be below 3100K. Anglesey is also
investing in LED lighting sources (again below 3000K and flat glass design) primarily for
economic and carbon emission savings. All new planning applications and development on
the island have to comply with the lighting policy where all lights have to be below 3000K.
In 2014 the yearly electricity cost of lighting to the Anglesey Highways Agency was £28,
463.12 (Crystal report 2014, Power Data report 2014- see appendix). kWh usage by public
lighting has been falling each year as more and more light sources are switched to more
energy efficient technologies. However installation costs are holding back the mass switch to
more efficient and less polluting light sources, as much of the funding available to urban
councils to combat the problem is unavailable to rural councils, where light pollution is
perceived to be less of a problem.
Anglesey Highways is continuing to switch to more efficient light sources with an emphasis
on electronically controlled dimming sources.
There are several areas of concern when dealing with conservation and light pollution on
Anglesey.
Several red listed species found on Anglesey have been identified to be affected by light
pollution. These animals include: The Arctic Tern and Sandwich Tern found in Cemlyn Bay
SPA (Montevecchi, 2006). The Red Billed Chough (is thought to be affected) can be found
on the Holyhead coast SSSI. The Skylark, Starling, Dunnock and Song Thrush are also
affected red listed bird species that are found on the island (RSPB, 2014). The Pembroke Neb
Moth is found on the Aberffraw and Newborough dune systems. The lesser horseshoe bat is
also found on the island around Beaumaris and Llanddona and is protected under annex 4 of
the EU habitats directive, as well as DEFRA’s bat biodiversity action plan. The European
night-jar has been recorded attempting to breed at Newborough Forest in clearfell areas this
year; this red listed species as previously mentioned suffers as a result of moth decline
attributed to light pollution.
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There is evidence that suggests that these animals are greatly affected by light pollution. Due
to the small amount of research currently available on light pollutions effects in nature, it is
likely that there could be a wider range of species affected on the island.
Due to the presence of these protected species and the potential for more effects of light
pollution on protected species to be found, it is important to have great consideration and
understanding when considering whether or not lighting an area or changing lighting policy is
necessary as damaging an already dwindling population could be catastrophic.
In Anglesey County Council’s supplementary planning guidance design guide for the urban
and rural environment, guidance note:10 on lighting (2010), consideration is given to the
AONB and the environmental, economic and health implications of lighting. Planning
applications which pose a significant threat in terms of light pollution have to follow the
guidelines stated. In the AONB an E1 environmental zone light pollution can have
detrimental impacts upon its special qualities and its tranquillity. Problems such as sky glow,
glare, light trespass and scenic intrusion should be considered at the pre-application stage for
new proposals and mitigation measures sought. In the E1 zones the intrinsically dark
landscape should be preserved however the policy only applies to new development
proposals and not existing developments which are already contributing to light pollution in
those areas. Some of the guidance in this proposal would need to be updated in order to
pursue dark skies status such as the advice given for lighting to blend into the sky (i.e. cool
LEDs) with spill light. With regards to policy in future there may be scope for the Welsh
Government with their enhanced powers to implement more stringent lighting legislation to
cover the entirety of Wales.
5. The Costs and Benefits of Reducing Light Pollution
5.1 Economic
Measures to reduce light pollution such as the installation of shields, electronic dimmers and
lower wattage all bulbs have associated costs i.e. materials and labour (NRDC, 2014).
However, in the UK every year £1billion is wasted in inefficient lighting. With the dimmers
and lower wattage bulbs electricity consumption will be reduced: however the extent of
economic savings will be dependent on energy company’s rate charges per kWh.
For Galloway Dark Sky Park (DSP) (the Gold Standard) application and establishment cost
to the Forestry Commission Scotland amounted to £21000 (Ekos, 2011). The DSP was
awarded to the area in November 2009, a partial economic impact generated for the first full
observing season (2010/2011) showed that for every £1 spent on transforming the area, there
has been a return on investment of £1.93. As a partial assessment of the DSP it should be
noted that there are a number of factors which have not been accounted for (e.g. day visitors,
visitors staying with friends, visitors staying in accommodation not surveyed) which means
that the full benefit of the DSP will in reality be much higher. This data is very encouraging
for the establishment of DSP as a viable tourist sector investment. There is often a lag
between investment and realised benefits so it is encouraging that the DSP economic benefits
are already being realised at an early stage.
The presence of tranquil areas helps boost rural tourism. A report into tranquillity by the Civil
Aviation Authority’s, Environmental Research and Consultancy Department found that many
people visit the countryside seeking tranquillity: this study showed that tranquillity is quoted
as a reason 49% of visitors are attracted to the countryside. Rural tourism in the UK directly
supports 380,000 jobs and annually contributes £13.8 billion to the economy. From this it can
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be concluded that tranquillity, including night-time tranquillity, makes a significant
contribution to the rural economy and job creation. Thus economic potential is a key factor in
the protection of tranquil areas in the UK. Anglesey’s economy is heavily dependent on
tourism and thus the protection of tranquillity through the reduction in disturbance such as
light pollution should be prioritised for the future economic success of the island. Economic
success enhances quality of life and is associated with increased environmental protection
policies.
France has introduced a nationwide policy that aims to combat light pollution. The policy
states that all businesses that are not in operation have to switch off all lights on the premises
within an hour of the last employee leaving. It also requires illuminated advertising to be
switched off after midnight. This is expected to save France 250,000 tonnes of CO2 a year
through energy savings. This results in energy savings big enough to power 750,000 homes,
which equates to £166m of savings (Bogard, 2013).
Assuming the an average price per kWh is £0.15, a householder who uses a 400W security
light which is on for 2 hours a night could save £32.88pa by switching to a 100W bulb with
more intelligent design(CfDS, 2014). This could equate to vast savings for residents on
Anglesey. As well as this, should lighting changes be made by residents and the council alike
it could be expected that Anglesey makes saving that could be better spent in other areas.
There is a high potential increase in revenue generated from a dark skies related tourist
programme. Dark skies would offer a new attraction to the island all year round but
particularly in the off peak season. Increased visitors to the island will benefit the hospitality
sector and other existing tourist attractions. There is also potential for boosting ecotourism
due to the benefit that reducing light pollution would have on biodiversity and protected
species.
Health benefits from reducing light pollution would be economically beneficial, though as yet
un-costed in terms of days taken off work through illness and costs to the NHS (CfDS, 2014).
Lighting is often presumed to reduce crime rates without supporting evidence. However
lighting has been found to have no effect or can even lead to an increase in crime rates
(CfDS, 2014). Lighting can actually hamper CCTV camera images making criminals less
easily identifiable, highlight areas of with poorer security and increase visibility enhancing
escape opportunities. Along with the impacts on criminal activity security lighting can
actually increase the fear of crime. A reduction in crime and fear of crime may benefit the
islands residents and attract more visitors if it is actually and perceived to be a safer place.
Crime can lead to economic losses by targeted businesses, and affect the economy of the
island as a whole. It would thus be beneficial in terms of crime to reduce light pollution.
5.2 Environmental
Reducing electricity consumption will reduce carbon emissions. A reduction in carbon
emissions will benefit the environment through reduced greenhouse gas and consequential
climate change and pollution of ecosystems, which threatens the ecosystems goods and
services vital to human economies and healthy ecosystem functioning. Reduced emissions
from lighting savings will help meet the Authority’s commitment to reducing carbon
emissions by 3% and energy and water usage by 5% per annum.
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Reducing light pollution will have positive impacts upon many species found on Anglesey.
Threats to protected bat populations will be reduced, which falls in line with the islands bat
action plan.
Reducing light pollution will increase the tranquillity and dark skies level of the island.
Tranquillity and dark skies are important in protecting the AONB from the deleterious effects
of development and maintaining its natural beauty and special qualities.
At present the CCW tranquillity map shows areas on the island with high tranquillity and thus
inherently darker skies to be the areas around Newborough, Bodorgan, Aberffraw in the west,
and Llyn Alaw and Cemlyn in the centre and north respectively. The major disturbances to
the tranquillity of the island stem from the major populations centres such as Holyhead,
Llangefni, Amlwch, Menai Bridge, major infrastructure such as A55 and A5025 and RAF
Valley. However, this assessment does not fully account for the “borrowed” light pollution
from more distant sources. For instance a major source of light pollution in the south of the
island comes from Gywnedd’s population centres stretching from Bangor to Caernarfon.
Rowlands (2015) however shows that there are remaining areas of relatively low light
pollution around Newborough and Aberffraw, Carmel Head to Cemlyn Bay, Point Lynas,
Mynydd Bodafon and Cors Erdreiniog, and Penmon which could be used as a starting point
to establish a wider assault on light pollution across the island and adjacent mainland.
6. Assessment of Anglesey's Options:
6.1 Background: the IDA and Standards
The International Dark- Sky Association (IDA), founded in 1988, is the recognised authority
on light pollution. It promotes the conservation and restoration of the natural night sky to
protect astronomy, ecosystems, and human health along with reducing energy wastage. The
IDA run the International Dark Sky Places Programme, this programme is composed of three
types of dark sky areas; communities, parks and reserves. International Dark Sky Parks and
Reserves contain some of the darkest and most pristine skies in the world. International Dark
Sky Communities are home to citizens concerned for the many aspects of light pollution
which degrade dark skies; however the skies may not be pristine.
Dark Sky Reserve- An IDA Dark Sky Reserve (DSR) is a public or private land of
substantial size (of 700 km² about 173,000 acres) possessing an exceptional or
distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically
protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public
enjoyment. (See appendix for requirements)
Dark Sky Park- An IDA Dark Sky Park (DSP) is a public land possessing an
exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is
specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or
public enjoyment. (See appendix for requirements)
Dark Sky Community - An IDA Dark Sky Community (DSC) is a town, city,
municipality, or other legally organized community (such as a urban neighbourhoods
and subdivisions) that has shown exceptional dedication to the preservation of the
night sky through the implementation and enforcement of quality lighting codes, dark
sky education, and citizen support of dark. (See appendix for requirements)
13
Due to Anglesey’s relatively high population of 69700 and associated light pollution, it is
highly unlikely for the island to become a DSR in the foreseeable future. Instead IDA
designation as a DSC could be pursued. Also the levels of light pollution sourced from
Gwynedd (Bangor, Caernarfon) would not be able to be mitigated against on the island to
sufficiently reduce light pollution in the required area. A DSP would be more likely to bring
benefits to social, economic and ecological systems than a DSC (where lighting policies are
voluntary and not legally enforceable). Anglesey already possesses a Dark Sky Discovery
Site at Glan Morfa Lodge and Wildlife Experience, which has the highest designation as a
Milky Way class site. A Dark Sky Discovery Site is a place that is away from the worst of
any local light pollution, provides good sightlines of the local sky and has good site
accessibility. The sites Milky Way classification means that the Milky Way is clearly visible
to the naked eye, these sites are much darker and only generally found in rural areas.
However this site does not currently host events which are considered essential in boosting
the profile of Anglesey’s nightscape. Additional sites should be set up on publically
accessible land where astronomy events could be held. These measures will help increase
public support for moving towards a DSP which is important when implementing new
policies to demonstrate commitment to the DSP programme.
A proposed DSP could be located in existing tranquil areas of the island where light pollution
levels are already lower such as the south west, west or north. A whole island DSP would be
less feasible due to the high density population centres and the busy A55, which is the main
route leading to Holyhead ferry port. 6.2 Options
6.2.1 Do nothing
With no policy interventions or management strategy the issue of light pollution is likely to
become worse. The economy would suffer through health implications, and the lack of a new
tourist attraction may deter visitors from the island to visit other areas which offer IDSA
designated dark skies. Environmentally, carbon emissions are likely to further increase with
urbanisation and increasing population size which are drivers for increased outdoor lighting.
If light pollution is not controlled and remains at the same levels on the island or increases it
is likely that many of the rare and protected species will suffer, and could lead to the loss of
these populations in the area.
6.2.2
Dark Sky Reserve Highly unlikely in foreseeable future
6.2.3 IDA Dark Sky park (DSP) Gold
This is the highest grade of DSP. Its night time environments have negligible to minor
impacts from light pollution; however the area displays superior quality night skies. (Refer to
the Dark Sky Park designation guidelines, IDA for further information page 6). Due to the
high population density of the island this may be difficult to attain.
6.2.4 IDA DSP Silver
The second grade of DSP. Its night time environments have minor disturbances for light
pollution however the area still possesses good quality night skies. (Refer to the Dark Sky
Park designation guidelines, IDA for further information page 6). It would be reasonable for
Anglesey to attain this designation.
6.2.5 IDA DSP Broonze
14
The lowest grade DSP. The area does not fulfil the requirements of silver designation
however light pollution and its effects have been reduced to provide some protection for
wildlife and humans. (Refer to the Dark Sky Park designation guidelines, IDA for further
information page 6). This standard would still be an achievement if part of the island was
awarded this status.
7 Recommendations and Conclusions
7.1 Recommendations
Aiming for an IDA Dark Sky Park would be a rewarding option. Due to Anglesey’s location
and dense population a Gold standard may be very difficult to attain compared to other areas
in the world. In all likelihood a bronze or silver certification would be more attainable but
equally as beneficial. However making this the sole aim at the beginning of the project would
be a misguided option. Should a dark sky application fail (as many do) it would leave the
parties involved dejected if that was the only aim of a project. Therefore it would be advised
that Anglesey authorities work on mitigating light pollution in all areas and to establish Dark
Sky Discovery Sites which host events. The cost of obtaining dark sky status is likely to be in
the region of £20,000-£25,000. This estimate is based on data from other areas, however the
actual cost will be dependent on Anglesey’s situation once further research has been
conducted i.e. lighting survey. Introducing better technologies, reducing overall light usage
and implementing new planning policiesacross the island. This would reduce the economic
and environmental impacts of light pollution and prove commitment to the IDA,
strengthening Anglesey’s bid for a DSP and demonstrate the benefits to the local population.
It would be advised that Anglesey push for dark skies to be recognised for the ecosystem
services that they provide through incorporation into existing planning policies, the AONB
management plan and economic and tourist development policies.
Implementing the above strategies would open up the doors for a DSP and make a future
application far more likely to succeed. In the case for where to locate a DSP it would be
advised that designating an area on the south west side (Newborough Forest, Aberffraw,
Bodorgan) of Anglesey would be the most logical place for a DSP. These areas have been
proposed due to their existing tranquil qualities, and they are home to some of the largest
areas of publically accessible land on Anglesey. The area is also fairly appealing to the
casual tourist due to locality and other attractions in the area, providing high potential for off
peak tourism and short stay visits. To further increase public engagement an astro blog
should be started about what can be seen from Anglesey and detailing any events. Along with
this an image library should be built up.
7.2 Conclusions
There is no doubt that a reduction in light pollution would be beneficial economically,
ecologically and socially. However it is important to note that there is no quick fix that would
pass as a viable option, especially with the continued Government budget cuts; reducing light
pollution requires capital investment to realise longer term savings. Ideally any project
designed to cut light pollution will take time and investment.
Reduction in light pollution and potentially creating a dark sky park on the island, presents a
significant opportunity for Anglesey to make savings both in energy and materials in the long
term. This in turn will present Anglesey as an area at the forefront of environmental
awareness. There should be recognition that Isle of Anglesey County Council has made a
15
good start in this by its programme of road lighting replacements. By improving and
protecting habitats for vulnerable species and making great steps in mitigating carbon
emissions, Anglesey would have a great opportunity to secure its future as a forward
thinking, greener county. This would provide other benefits such as increased tourism and the
ability to attract environmentally minded business to the area, providing a much needed boost
to the economy.
Any decision that is made should be backed up by extensive research into its social,
ecological and economic effects as implementing a strategy without adequate understanding
and care could result in negative impacts such as a public backlash against a change or an
ecological positive feedback. It is important to keep all stakeholders engaged in the process
of reducing light pollution as any project undertaken would rely heavily on cooperation
between groups i.e. the council, inter departmental groups, relevant NGOs, local business,
and especially the local population and people with relevant expertise in the area.
8. Appendix
8.1 Minimum IDA requirements for communities
16
17
8.2 Minimum IDA requirements for DSP
18
19
20
21
8.3 Minimum IDA requirements for reserves
22
23
24
25
8.4
Table
of
requirements
for
DSP
8.5 Planning Policies
26
gold,
silver
and
bronze
designations
Anglesey Council’s Planning Policies- as listed on highways report in to street lighting
savings
6.1
The adopted Development Plan and Stopped Unitary Development Plan (UDP)
seek to minimise artificial lighting pollution.
The Institution of Lighting Engineers
recommends that local planning authorities specify environmental zones for exterior lighting
control within their development plans.
6.2
Designated areas such as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB),
Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and the County’s 12 Conservation Areas should be
prioritised. The Council’s adopted AONB Management Plan states:
“Ensure that the solitude, natural beauty and nightscape is maintained”.
6.3
The Council has adopted Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG): Lighting of
Public Areas (Guidance Note 10, March, 2008). This is currently being updated.”
The Isle of Anglesey county council’s report on potential lighting savings stated:1.
Street lighting not statutory. Gives room for potential economic savings to be made,
this can assist with considerable economic cut backs for councils
2.
Can help to reduce council’s carbon foot print
3.
Various options given ranging from switching lights off, maintain status quo,
switching off lights at various hours, gradually doing this, dimming equipment
4.
They conclude that best thing would be to gradually switch off light between
specified hours
CPRE recommendations- from report Shedding Light. CPRW does not have a similar report
but findings can be transferred to the situation in Wales
All local authorities should have a policy to control light pollution in their Local Plan, in line
with the NPPF and the associated National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG) on light
pollution. This should include identifying existing dark areas that need protecting; local
authorities should consider preparing a Street Lighting Policy, which could include
Environmental Lighting Zones to ensure that the appropriate lighting levels are used in each
zone, with very strict requirements applying in identified dark areas; we encourage local
authorities to investigate how part-night lighting schemes (e.g. switching off between
midnight and 5am) or dimming could work in their areas, including examining the cost,
energy and carbon savings. This should be done in full consultation with the local
community; all local authorities who are switching off or dimming street lighting should
monitor crime and accident statistics and consider taking part in the Institution of Lighting
Professionals/ LANTERNS research project which aims to quantify any effects of changes to
street lighting on road traffic accidents and crime; local authorities should give careful
consideration to the type of Light- Emitting Diode (LED) lighting they use and consider the
potential impacts that higher temperature blue rich lighting has on ecology and on human
health; local authorities with responsibility for street lighting could set targets for replacing
all their street and road lights with less light polluting types, such as full cut off flat glass
27
lamps; new street lighting should be tested ‘in situ’ before a lighting scheme is rolled out
across a wider area to ensure that it is the minimum required for the task and does not cause a
nuisance to residents; local authorities should have a strong presumption against new lighting
in existing dark areas, unless essential as part of a new development or for public safety
reasons that have been clearly demonstrated; the Highways Agency should review the
lighting section of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, which is used to design
motorway and trunk road lighting, to ensure it remains relevant for local authorities.
8.6 Assessment of wavelengths
28
Source
Description
Wavelengths Impact
environmental
High
Pressure
Sodium
Highpressure
sodium – A
goldenyellow light
source,
widely used
throughout
the world.
Majority of
light
produced is
in the 540640nm
range
however
small
amount of
light
at
shorter
wavelengths
.
Low
Pressure
Sodium
Filtered
LED
LED
2400K
Sky
Glow *,
relative
to LPS.
Better than LED, 2.4
however
many
people perceive
the yellow light
to
be
less
satisfactory than
white light.
Longer
wavelengths have
fewer impacts on
species.
Sky
Glow*,
relative
to HPS
1.0
Low590-600nm
pressure
sodium – a
nearly
monochroma
tic yelloworange light
source.
Better than LED, 1.0
however
many
people perceive
the yellow light
to
be
less
satisfactory than
white light.
Longer
wavelengths have
fewer impacts on
species.
0.4
Filtered
lightemitting
diode – a
straw-yellow
LED lamp
with a filter
that removes
most
emission
with
wavelength
shorter than
500
nanometres.
Lightemitting
diode with
Zero upward light 3.6
Removal of short
wavelengths
benefits
many
bats, moths and
birds
1.5
Peak
at Zero
upward 4.3
580nm,
lighting
small peak Reduced energy
1.8
>500nm
29
Impact
health
Impact
economic
Improper
use can
cause
light to
shine in
bedrooms
disrupting
sleep. Not
as severe
effects as
LED with
short
waveleng
ths
Improper
use can
cause
light to
shine in
bedrooms
disrupting
sleep. Not
as severe
effects as
LED with
short
waveleng
ths
Improper
use can
cause
light to
shine in
bedrooms
disrupting
sleep. Not
as severe
effects as
LED with
short
waveleng
ths
High
electricity
costs, not
very
efficient.
Potential
astrotourism
revenue
High
electricity
costs, not
very
efficient.
Potential
astro
tourism
revenue.
Reduced
energy
consumpt
ion,
economic
savings
made,
helps to
meet
GHG
reduction
targets.
Shorter
Reduced
waveleng energy
ths
are consumpt
LED
4100K
LED
5100K
“correlated
colour
temperature”
(CCT)
of
2400K – a
“warmwhite” LED.
This type of
LED has not
seen
wide
use.
Lightemitting
diode with
CCT
of
4100K – a
“cool-white”
LED. This is
a common
LED type in
recent LED
area lighting
installations.
Lightemitting
diode with
CCT
of
5100K – a
“cool-white”
LED. This
also is a
common
LED type in
recent LED
area lighting
installations.
at 440nm
consumption
helps to meet
GHG reduction
targets.
Shorter
wavelengths bad
for species**
bad for ion,
circadian economic
rhythm
savings
made,
Largest peak Zero
upward 6.4
at 440nm
lighting
Reduced energy
consumption
helps to meet
GHG reduction
targets.
Shorter
wavelengths bad
for species**
2.7
Largest peak Zero upward light 7.9
at 440nm
Reduced energy
consumption
helps to meet
GHG reduction
targets.
Shorter
wavelengths bad
for species**
3.3
Shorter
waveleng
ths
are
bad for
circadian
rhythm
Reduced
energy
consumpt
ion,
economic
savings
made,
helps to
meet
GHG
reduction
targets.
Shorter
Reduced
waveleng energy
ths
are consumpt
bad for ion,
circadian economic
rhythm
savings
made,
helps to
meet
GHG
reduction
targets.
* An increased sky glow means that fewer stars are visible. Low values good for astronomy
** Shorter wavelengths, blue lights, disturb many species of bats, moths and birds
8.7 Experience of other authorities
30
Northumberland
Correspondence with Duncan Wise the Visitor and Development Officer.
•
•
Local astronomy groups are key to success
Dark sky discovery sites are very important ( you can’t just leap in to being a dark sky
park without some interest already
• Very difficult to generate astro tourism without dark sky certification
• Institute of lighting professionals
• First push for tranquillity and the use of correct lighting not a change or reduction at
first
• Spread the interest to build support
• Northumberland specifically spent two years not telling people to switch off lights
• Start a blog and build an image library
• Sky quality meter, cheap and essential. Local people and astronomy societies can take
readings
• Dark sky discovery sites should be hosting free events
• Circulate voluntary lighting guidelines
• Local tourism board- get them on board, and to gear up to or just into the idea of
astro-tourism
• More tourists in January than August.
Email from Duncan Wise
Websites:
http://www.visitnorthumberland.com/darkskies
http://www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/visiting/thingstodo/stargazing
http://kielderobservatory.org/
http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/stargazerswelcomepack.pdf/$FILE/stargazerswelcomepac
k.pdf
Though securing a protected dark skies status may ultimately be your aim, I would
recommend the following in the short-term:
1)
Organise a few free public star gazing sessions, with members of the local
Astronomical Society, who may be only too pleased to be invited and share their passion
for the subject. This will be appreciated by residents and visitors alike.
2)
Buy a Sky Quality Meter from Unihedron (£100) and start gathering as many dark
sky readings as you can, anywhere you believe you will get the best readings. Record
them with dates and locations (this will form part of the evidence base for any future
protected dark sky designation application). Again the local astro soc will I am sure be
happy to help, and volunteers may be forthcoming to extend the data collection.
31
3)
Look to establish another ‘Dark Sky Discovery Site’ that is easily accessible and
may have basic visitor facilities nearby. The process is quite straight forward, see:
http://www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk/dark-sky-discovery-sites/map.html#sites We are
looking to establish another 20 or so sites in Northumberland in the next year or so.
4)
Circulate and promote a voluntary code for residents and developers to implement
best practice in the installation of outside lighting. There are many free downloads out
there
already
to
signpost
to
e.g.
http://www.britastro.org/darkskies/pdfs/CfDS_guidelines.pdf
5)
Start encouraging tourism businesses to tap into/gear up for astro-tourism (e.g.
providing simple facilities, comfort, equipment to enable their guests to enjoy the night
sky. These can be simple as providing hats and gloves to keep warm, deck chairs to sit
out on, blankets to cover up knees, 10 x 50 binoculars to use, star charts, thermos flasks to
fill up with hot chocolate, a key pad on the front door to let yourself in after a night’s star
gazing without waking up the rest of your guests, etc).
Isle of Wight
Email from Fiona Hanna
For the contribution to the character and enjoyment of the AONB landscape and its wildlife
maintaining the Dark Skies quality of Wight AONB is something of great importance to us
(as
detailed
in
our
management
plan
2014-19
–
chapter
13
http://wightaonb.org.uk/publications/wight-aonb-management-plan-2014-2019-now-online/ )
and we have developed robust policies towards safeguarding these.
To help raise awareness of this and help further reduce light pollution, we are currently
working with Vectis Astronomical Society in developing a bid to the International Dark Sky
Association (IDA) for Dark Sky status for the whole Isle of Wight and with the AONB as the
core dark area. Please see www.darkwightskies.com
As the Island has quite a significant population this will be quite a challenge, however the
whole County is currently changing all the former sodium lighting to centrally controlled
LED lighting with the capacity for trimming and dimming as required by the communities.
This will result in significant savings for the Local Authority and greatly reduce the level of
sky glow. We are also developing a mapping and monitoring programme on the quality of
the night sky for the whole Island and have been running a variety of public awareness
activities.
Currently working towards our IDA application is relatively staff/volunteer resource heavy
with regards to building the evidence, recording and raising awareness activities and events,
however, this will be outweighed by the eventual benefits to the landscape, wildlife, tourism
and potential savings and reduction in carbon emissions should we achieve our aims.
32
CPRE
have
recently
produced
a
report
‘Shedding
http://www.cpre.org.uk/resources/countryside/dark-skies/item/3608-shedding-light
you may find helpful for your report.
Light’
which
Snowdonia National Park
Correspondence with Gethin Davies the ecosystems and climate change officer.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
What to do
Contact IDA
Get SQM readings
Ecological readings
Artificial light and wildlife symposium has some useful information
http://www.bats.org.uk/pages/artificial_light_and_wildlife_symposium_determining_
solutions_for_practitioners.html
Potential for some of Angleseys industry to offer funding?
A Lighthouse within the np had its light changed to a red light to protect birds, same
could be done on Anglesey?
John Barentine recommended that Snowdonia would get Bronze
Lighting management plan
Lighting technician
Lighting audit of before and after any changes
Brecon Beacons
Correspondence with Ruth Coulthard the funding development manager.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Brecon Beacons began their dark sky quest after being altered to the issue and
possibilities by Nick Ramsey AM, who had already raised the issue with the Welsh
Government.
Dark sky discovery sites are very important for star gazing programmes which help
raise publicity for astro-tourism in the area.
The project had no real opposition, not even in the auditing stage, attributed to a big
positive campaign with lots of outreach and education.
- This included star gazing events, an education program, classroom activities and
community events.
The total cost of the project was £25,000.
Lighting laws being developed for planning.
There was a big increase in tourism enquiries, but most people surveyed said there
had been an increase in visitor numbers, but not drastic.
There are two astronomy societies on the edge of the park, but the most active partner
group was Cardiff 20 miles away.
33
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Knowledge of the local area is key.
They know that the Peak District is slowly moving towards dark skies but finding it
difficult (Peak District contacted for further information but did not reply)
Brecon Beacons didn’t write a report instead they approached a trust for money
(Brecon Beacons Trust)
A lot of work had to be carried out in addition to the day job e.g. annual star count
The IDA were contacted and criteria discussed.
There was difficulty in defining the core zone required for reserves.
No changes in light, just how they were used i.e. dimming, switching off and
shielding. Highways are adopting newer style lights.
Awarded IDA Dark Sky Reserve Silver status in 2013
South Downs
Correspondence with Dan Oakley: Ranger
•
The dark sky project was initiated by incorporating the need for dark skies and
tranquillity into a management plan
• Local parishes were very important
• In the IDA framework some lights aren’t in the planning report
• Astronomy groups are frequently contacted (South Dows has 20 nearby)
• Dark sky discovery sites are a good alternative or jumping off point.
• Current thoughts on a possible dark sky landscapes affiliation
• Bob Mizon- Campaign for dark skies
• Martin Morgan Taylor is the rep fot the IDA in the UK
• No out-reach done yet
• Andromeda hunt (star count) is useful to get people involved.
• Campaign met with good reactions from all people
• West Sussex ILP guidelines, misses out colour temperature, IDA pushed for
maximum of 3100K
Email from Dan Oakley
First things first. You need to be sure you have dark skies of sufficient quality in the first
place. This means taking Sky Quality Measurements (SQM) using a unihedron SQM
meter.
http://www.firstlightoptics.com/unihedron-sky-quality-meters/unihedron-sqm-lsky-quality-meter.html (The one with a lens). This is the device used by all other parks
and is approved by the IDA. The values you measure must be of a certain level in order
to qualify. The IDA guidance states at what levels these are, according to the Bortle
Scale. Here in the downs, we are looking at values of around 21, so roughly Bronze
level.
34
As a rough guess, you can use visual observations of astronomical objects to assess your
quality. If you can clearly see the Milky Way or the Andromeda Galaxy with the naked
eye, then you know roughly you have dark skies.
The trouble is – and it’s a bit of bad timing on your part, is that these measurements must
be taken under ‘astronomical darkness’ conditions, with no moon and very little cloud.
Unfortunately, during these summer months, we will be in perpetual twilight and the
skies won’t be dark enough for you to get an accurate value.
However, you could ask your local astronomy group to see if they have this information.
If they have, use this as an indicator….you will still have to gather data using the SQM.
To gather the SQM, rather depends on your landscape. You could follow the Brecons,
and Exmoor method and measure in a few specific locations over a couple of years, or
you could – like the SDNPA – measure every few hundred metres or so and build up a
map. Trouble is, the map is very time consuming. I’ve been doing for two winters and
still haven’t finished it! Have a read of Exmoor and Brecons reports, you can see how
they did it and apply what you think is appropriate. If you have a large area of open
access (like moorland or mountains) the Exmoor/Brecons method might be easier. If you
have a ‘man-made’ landscape, you may have to assess it in more detail.
If your
resources are limited, I suggest the easy option.
Secondly. If you have got dark skies, then you will need appropriate policies to protect
them. These will be planning policies. For you, your biggest stumbling block will be that
AONB’s are not planning authorities, unlike the SDNPA, so you can’t set them up
without the Local Planning Authorities permission. I think this is why AONB’s struggle
with the dark sky model, because of the difficulty of setting planning policies on an
arbitrary boundary. You will have to do a great deal of consultation and engagement with
your local authorities and the parishes to set these policies on behalf of the AONB. Good
luck.
If you do manage to get the LA’s on board, you should apply the Institute of Lighting
Professionals
guidance
on
obtrusive
light
Light
https://www.theilp.org.uk/documents/obtrusive-light/ as the basis for your policies.
Specifically, Table 1 will show you the lighting requirements for the Environmental Zone
– which I would think is E1. Importantly it’s Upward Light Ratio and the Source
Intensity that must be controlled. You will have to ensure that these policies are
communicated to your planners and that they know how to comment on them.
Alternatively, persuade someone in the AONB to be the consultee on lighting planning
applications. You could also get your local astronomy group to be a secondary consultee
on planning issues. We are lucky in the SDNPA to have three astronomers that are
founder members of the Campaign For Dark Skies. The more weight you can add to your
comments, the better the protection will be.
Thirdly. If you manage to get the policies and the darkness sorted…you now get to the
hard bit. In order to comply with the IDA guidelines, a Lighting Management Plan must
35
be completed. In this plan, all sources of external light must be audited within the
proposed core boundary. If you are (relatively) lucky and have a population density like
Exmoor and the Brecons and you can draw a sensible boundary line on existing open
access land, your task will be a lot simpler. If, however, you are like the SDNPA and
have a lot of people living in and around the core, then the task gets more difficult….a lot
difficult. To put this in perspective…our proposed core zone could have around 8000
people in it. Figure one external light per person, and the lighting management plan has
to audit 8000 light bulbs! Clearly not achievable. Here in the SDNPA we are taking
some other steps to get round this problem, but you can appreciate the difficulty.
In the Brecons and Exmoor, they employed a Lighting Engineer (I think his name was
Steve Owens) to do the survey and generate the plan. For them this was a bit easier as
they only had up to 300 light bulbs to audit. We couldn’t do it, because the costs of an
engineer to do it, would (pardon the pun) become astronomical. So, I’m doing with the
help of the local parishes. Fortunately, I have a physics background, so getting my head
round lighting isn’t too bad.
But…your lighting plan will depend on how many lights you have in the core zone.
Also, the IDA won’t let you draw a boundary to miss them out.
Fourthly: When you have dark skies, policies, lighting management plan, the next step
will be assess which lights within the core do not comply to the IDA guidance. You then
have to incorporate a plan to show how you will finance and go about changing these
lights. Again, much will depend on where and what form your core takes. It’s good that
you have 5 years to completed this, but in order to comply with a reserve, two thirds of
the lighting already in the park must be of sufficient quality.
Fifthly; Having done all that and having a minor breakdown in the process, the rest is
relatively simple (and fun). You must provide some opportunities, educational advice
etc… Here in the SDNPA we have quite a lot of astronomy societies so we managed to
piggy back on the back of their events. We just turned up with a few telescopes (which
are handy to purchase – I can give you advice on costs and type as I have become quite
the expert) and promoted the various surveys we were running (Orion Star Count with
CPRE, Andromeda Hunt, external lighting survey….see our website.) I think the BBC
might be moving Star Gazing Live up north next year, so if you time it right, you can start
your promotion at the same time. (you might even get on it as well…I did…it was
terrifying!)
Sixthly: We had a meeting with the IDA a few weeks ago to discuss our application.
We stressed the importance of having a dark sky park in the most polluted part of the
country and said how restraining the LMP was. The important thing they said to us, was
that the IDA want to see commitment to protect the skies. So provided you can show that
your authority, the LA’s, the residents etc…are all willing to do their part, you can
progress quite well.
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If it fails you could show candidate Dark Sky Discovery sites as a back up. You could
alternatively, revert to a Dark Sky Park (like Galloway) or Dark Sky Community (Like
Sark)
So, there you go. It’s a massive undertaking and will need dedicated resources to
finishing it. I think other parks gave themselves 2-3 years to put the application together.
We have given ourselves roughly the same. Talk to the IDA about your park as quickly
as you can.
If you want a chat, and I suggest you do as this is very complicated, give me a call on
02392 572619. You might also try Ruth Coultard from Brecons.
Good luck. You’ll have a busy two months. Pity you can’t get the data to see even if
you can start! I think you’ve got a few weeks before perpetual twilight kicks in…so get
the SQM and take a few measurements. The Mobile observatory app will give you
twilight times
.
Steve Owens- Involvement with various authorities, freelance science communicator and
astronomer.
• How Steve Owens became involved with projects.
Galloway- Steve Owens approached Forestry Commission
Sark local government approached Steve Owens
Exmoor- Emma Dennis got the backing of the national park in 2008
Brecon- Fiends of Brecon Trust
Northumberland- Steve Owens approached national park
Coll- 4 friends in a pub decided to do it
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Projects will never work if the community isn’t involved
Dark Sky Community may frown on only one area of the AONB getting dark sky
certification.
There are no size limits to dark sky parks
The IDA had recently evolved a much harder line with dark sky certification
Not a straight forward process
Most applications are declined
The ida has two crucial non- negotiable conditions
1. Planning controls have to be made legally enforceable
2. Need to show commitment. There needs to be a good reduction in light pollution
Steps need to have already been made, and future plans robust
2/3 but preferably ¾ of existing lighting needs to be night sky friendly
Zero upwards light
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Warmer lights
1. LPS and HPS ideal for astronomers
2. LED better for savings and zero upwards light
3. Colour temperature has to be below 3100K (warm white LED)
4. Lights aren’t allowed to be on longer than necessary
Councils have to commit to these regulations
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Dark Sky Discovery Sites are great, but there are some issues. Dark sky discovery
sites are very easy to obtain and be approved. Skye has many and call themselves a
dark sky island but light pollution has gotten worse since.
Costing
Galloway £21,000
Sark £10,000
Anglesey population means that if approved it would be the most populous dark sky
place in Europe.
Lighting audit needed to be undertaken.
1. Jim Paterson
2. On the ground visit
3. Liaise with the council
4. Identify dark and light areas
A legally enforceable lighting code has to be written
Get it adopted, show that the council wants to make it happen
Steve Owens can help with dark sky mapping, and writing applications (Fee £10,000)
Never faced any significant opposition, most in favour because of off season tourism
opportunities, coincides with star gazing season. Eco tourism
The Northumberland parish council chair was against lighting control. Process
delayed until he was removed from the council.
Only ever successful argument against lighting control is the fear of crime going up
Recommendations for Anglesey
A DSP is of no defined size, however does have to have a proportion of public land
Make sure there is no backlash
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John Barentine- IDA Dark Sky Places Programme
email
Thank you for contacting IDA concerning your work in Anglesey. My name is John
Barentine and I manage the Dark Sky Places Program for IDA. Bob Parks forwarded me
your message as I'm likely the person on our staff best able to answer your questions.
First, I should point out that while IDA is not the only organization that offers dark sky status
or a similar certification, our program is probably the most recognizable one internationally.
In the UK, the Dark Sky Discovery Sites (http://www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk/dark-sky38
discovery-sites/map.html) are probably more visible by virtue of the fact that there are more
of them. Our application process is more stringent than that of the Dark Sky Discovery
Sites, which we hope has the result of making the dark places more enduring; i.e., keeping the
dark places dark in the future. For that, we ask for a higher degree of community
involvement and support for the IDA application that convinces us the efforts toward
controlling light pollution will be sustained after the excitement of the initial designation
wears off and the work really begins.
For many of the sites that have applied to our program successfully, the most difficult aspect
of the effort has been convincing local governments to enact controls on outdoor lighting. In
fact, it has been the sticking point in more than one instance for our Dark Sky Reserves
(http://www.darksky.org/international-dark-sky-places/about-ids-places/reserves), in part due
to their relatively large minimum size (700 square km). One of our Reserves, Pic du Midi in
southern France, was the result of significant efforts on the part of their applicants: they had
to obtain policy changes from some 250 municipalities and other government entities within
the Reserve boundary. In their case, it helped that the French national government recently
enacted a nationwide law requiring lighting curfews, so it wasn't a particularly heavy lift to
get towns in the Reserve area to go a step further and mandate features like shields for
outdoor lights. In other instances, such as in German, some local governments have balked;
this is particularly true in the former East Germany, where "dark" is something of an epithet
referring to the East's poorly-developed infrastructure, a relic of the Communist era. They
sometimes eagerly pursue bad outdoor lighting under the psychology that says bright outdoor
spaces at night are a sign of economic development.
So one thing we do know is that there are often a lot of local politics wrapped up in these
decisions, and therefore we try to provide advice as best we can about navigating those
political minefields and convincing local officials that making good decisions about outdoor
lighting ultimately bolsters their bottom lines. There is a great deal of anecdotal evidence
about cities and towns adopting lighting controls as a means of lowering their utility bills,
whether or not they're concerned about such decisions' impact on dark night skies. And for
the "gateway communities" next to the national parks and nature reserves which are often at
the heart of some of our Dark Sky Places, receiving dark sky status has literally yielded an
uptick in tourism revenue. The field of "astrotourism" is still nascent, but we are starting to
get some data. I've attached a report prepared for the area around Galloway Forest Park (an
IDA Dark Sky Park in Scotland) which shows that for every £1 invested in the tourism
infrastructure since Galloway Forest became a Dark Sky Park in 2009, locals have seen a
return averaging £1.93**. This is a very encouraging result. Now I can tell prospective
applicants to our project that there is an actual tangible return on the investments they make
in becoming a Dark Sky Place. I have attached the Galloway report to this message for your
perusal.
Likely the greatest single contributor to light pollution in most parts of the developed world is
public streetlighting, given the number of illuminated roadways and the technologies now
used to light them. So localities that wish to reduce the level of light pollution in their
environments would do well to consider one of several options:
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First is eliminating streetlighting altogether where it is not warranted. We have some very
recent research results, yet unpublished, by the American lighting engineering firm Clanton
& Associates that suggests that at speeds of less than about 55 km/hr, automobile headlights
are far more efficient in providing safe illumination of roadways than overhead street lights.
The work suggests that contrast, not absolute illumination levels, are important at these low
speeds. Obviously, this means highways will need overhead lights, but the spacing between
poles should be increased in most cases, as -- contrary to intuition -- uniformity of lighting
makes visibility poorer for motorists. Either way, the verdict is that we're generally
overlighting our streets and roads in a way that does not contribute to increased safety for
motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians.
Second, existing light fixtures can be replaced with newer technologies. In many cases,
especially in the UK, these are the conventional, low-pressure sodium lamps, which are quite
good in terms of energy efficiency but poor at color rendition -- and some tasks at night
require proper sensation of color. Many communities in the U.S. and Europe are starting to
install various types of white LED lighting, although many of these lamps emit a significant
amount of blue light, which is deleterious both to humans and wildlife. We're encouraging
municipalities considering white LED lighting for public spaces to install lamps with a
relatively low "colour temperature" to minimize the amount of blue light they emit.
On the other hand, many cities and towns are not in a financial condition to consider
replacing their old sodium lights with new technologies. The third option is to keep existing
fixtures, but to retrofit them to ensure that their light is aimed down to the ground and not up
into the sky. In many cases, this can be affected by simply fitting a sheet-metal shield over an
existing street light, ensuring that none of its light is emitted above the horizontal. Often,
when towns try this they find that by ensuring that more light is going down, there's a
reduced need overall for lighting and they compensate by simply turning some of the fixtures
off. This is a cost-effective way for a community to deal with light pollution from street
lights without it necessarily costing a lot of money.
Many of these remedies also apply to lighting on private property. Lights can easily be
shielded if deemed necessary, if not replaced with better (and more energy-efficient)
technology. It is sometimes difficult to get laws passed that apply to private property
depending on the jurisdiction, but if dark sky status is on the line, it can be enough to
convince property owners to comply. We have model legislation available on our website
(http://darksky.org/lighting-codes/ida-iesna-model-lighting-ordinance) designed to help
governments through the process of enacting lighting controls, and similar model language
for parks seeing dark sky status to develop complementary lighting policy
(http://www.darksky.org/assets/documents/RASC-IDA_GOL_November_2012-Final.pdf).
8.8 Opinions of Local People/Groups
Councillors on the AONB advisory committee- Arwel Roberts and Richard Dew (verbal),
thought the project was a good idea, as it could protect the AONB and its protected species
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and bring economic prosperity to the island. T Victor Hughes is very supportive of current
council policy of replacing highway lighting with cost efficient 'semi cut-off' lamps that seem
to direct light to the areas needed i.e. underfoot.
Anglesey Tourism’s- Andrew Forfar “Sustainable initiatives like this that can attract
additional tourism revenue can only benefit Wales.
Destination Anglesey Board’s- Phil Scott “I think this is a great opportunity for Anglesey”
Anglesey Energy Island Programme Director- John Idris Jones is supportive of the idea of
pursuing Dark Sky Status
Jim Woodcock, Head of Planning & Public Protection, understands the benefits and has been
involved with framing the policies for the Campaign for Dark Skies. Dark sky status would
work as part of the Sustainable development Vision
Eryl C. Davies, Senior Lighting Engineer, pointed out that compared to other areas in the UK
that had seen no opposition to large lighting changes, changes to light in areas such as
Aberffraw were met with opposition due to lack of night time illumination through windows.
Eryl Davies provided information on Anglesey Highways current lighting strategy and
expenditure. Advice was for future investment in electronic control and the dimming route
should be pursued to reduce light pollution and save money. He also pointed out that savings
are entirely reliant on the prices that energy companies charge per kWh.
John Rowlands- Ariel imaging and surveying services
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Make sure that there is no backlash
Newborough is an obvious place to start a park
Anglesey is a special landscape area
GIS map on light pollution is useless, instead proper light readings are needed.
Whilst a dark sky park is a good outcome it shouldn’t be the only objective
It relies on all parties working well together and keeping each other in the loop.
1989, John Rowlands published probably the first article to deal with tackling light
pollution. Most in authority however were not convinced at the concept or the need to
do anything
Early 1990s. John Rowlands appeared on TV and then had a call from the Welsh
Office as it was. They wanted to know how they could help. As a result, junctions
along the old A5, and then the new A55, all had down-shining lamps.
In the early 1990s, Gwynedd Council's Bob Diamond was a very early adopter of the
message that light pollution was a problem. He installed experimental downshiners
on certain roads. Gwynedd's support was noted within the pages of New Scientist.
Mid-1990s, Anglesey receives a 'Good Lighting Award' for installing downshiners.
This is still on the wall at Highways; they received another in 2013 for retrofitting a
large number of lights along major Anglesey routes.
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2000s. The message had sunk in and slow progress towards using downshiners as
standard had been made. Light pollution was now discussed by the general public.
Several new motorway stretches in England were all downshiners.
Late naughties: Aldi installed badly polluting lights in Llangefni. I rattled the sabre
with Planning, which saw an immediate move to research and introduce a
Supplementary Guidance (number 10) on lighting. This has seen patchy but perhaps
improving enforcement recently. The SPG is not a legal instrument, but it can have
that effect in that compliance can be (and is) made a condition of consent. Amlwch's
new medical centre is a case in point during 2012/13 where non-compliance sparked
low-level enforcement; lights were replaced as a result. I hope this will continue.
Present day: Economic crisis underway, energy blackouts are threatened. Mass
replacement of low pressure sodium and high pressure sodium lamps with LED units,
sometimes metal halide (though the latter have a quarter of the life expectancy of
LED, and their choice for energy saving is suspect.) Councils are quietly
experimenting with after-11pm dimming and in certain cases, switch-offs.
Resurgence in an effort by the likes of me and Bodorgan Estate to finally market
Anglesey as a darker-skies venue for tourism.
Problems peculiar to Anglesey are the 'doughnut' nature of the AONB - tight control
on the coast, pretty much anything goes on the inside. Farms are generally a problem,
and fall under the wider issue of difficulty in tackling cheap-to-buy, expensive-tooperate private lighting. Unless they are a statutory nuisance, an almost impossible
case to make, then there is no control over private exterior lighting.
The only reason Anglesey haven't got a coherent plan and a darker Anglesey is the
failure of all the actors to come together and create such an identity for the island.
Kris Williams- Landscape Photographer
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Believes that dark sky status would be a boost for Anglesey
Obtaining this status would offer a level of protection to the already limited viewing
opportunities of our night-sky
“It only takes a few lights in the wrong place, and many shots that I have been able to
take in the past would no longer be available.”
Containers ships can also be a problem
Aurora visible on occasion
Alan Trow, dark sky Wales, would be a useful contact.
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8.9. Anglesey Highways Lighting Reports
Crystal
Report-
STL
Lighting
Control,
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produced
for
Anglesey
Highways
Crystal reports- STL Energy by E.B Account produced for Anglesey Highways
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45
46
Crystal reports- STL Energy Profile, produced for Anglesey Highways
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48
49
Power Data Associates- Carbon Emissions, produced for Anglesey Highways
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Power Data Associates- Monthly Consumption produced for Anglesey Highways
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9. Maps
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10. References - it is usual to have references either in alphabetical order (preferred) or
numbered in the text
Longcore, T., & Rich, C. (2004). Ecological light pollution. Frontiers in Ecology and the
Environment, 2(4), 191-198.
Gallaway, T., Olsen, R. N., & Mitchell, D. M. (2010). The economics of global light
pollution. Ecological Economics, 69(3), 658-665.
Walker, M. F. (1973). Light pollution in California and Arizona. Publications of the
Astronomical Society of the Pacific, 508-519.
Northumberland County Council, 2014, Light Pollution, http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/
default.aspx?page=831, 25/06/14
Narisada, K., & Schreuder, D. (2004). Light pollution handbook (Vol. 322). Springer.
The royal commission on environmental pollution, 2009, Artificial light in the environment,
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/228832/97801
08508547.pdf.pdf, 3/4/2013
BBC, 2012, Light pollution 'saturates' UK's night skies, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk17665397, 3/4/2012
Taylor M, 2006, Light pollution and Nuisance: The enforcement guidance for light as a
statutory nuisance, http://www.britastro.org/dark-skies/pdfs/JPEL2006_08.pdf, 4/4/2014
Atkins, S., Husain, S., & Storey, A. (1991). The influence of street lighting on crime and fear
of crime. London: Home Office.
Smith, Malcolm. "Time to turn off the lights." Nature 457.7225 (2008): 27-27.
BBC, 2007, Migration, Bardsey, http://www.bbc.co.uk/naturescalendar/autumn/migration
/bardsey/ bardsey_background.shtml , 24/06/2014
Kempenaers, B., Borgström, P., Loës, P., Schlicht, E., & Valcu, M. (2010). Artificial night
lighting affects dawn song, extra-pair siring success, and lay date in songbirds. Current
Biology, 20(19), 1735-1739.
Partecke, J., Van't Hof, T., & Gwinner, E. (2004). Differences in the timing of reproduction
between urban and forest European blackbirds (Turdus merula): result of phenotypic
flexibility or genetic differences?. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series B:
Biological Sciences, 271(1552), 1995-2001.
Acharya, L., & Fenton, M. B. (1999). Bat attacks and moth defensive behaviour around street
lights. Canadian Journal of Zoology, 77(1), 27-33.
Rich, C., & Longcore, T. (Eds.). (2005). Ecological consequences of artificial night lighting.
Island Press.
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van Langevelde, F., Ettema, J. A., Donners, M., WallisDeVries, M. F., & Groenendijk, D.
(2011). Effect of spectral composition of artificial light on the attraction of moths. Biological
Conservation, 144(9), 2274-2281.
Stone, E. L., Jones, G., & Harris, S. (2012). Conserving energy at a cost to biodiversity?
Impacts of LED lighting on bats. Global Change Biology, 18(8), 2458-2465.
Tyler, N., Stokkan, K. A., Hogg, C., Nellemann, C., Vistnes, A. I., & Jeffery, G. (2014).
Ultraviolet vision and avoidance of power lines in birds and mammals. Conservation
Biology, 28(3), 630-631.
IPCC (2007). Mitigation of climate change. Summary for Policymakers.
Montevecchi, W. A. (2006). Influences of artificial light on marine birds. Ecological
consequences of artificial night lighting, 94-113.
RSPB, 2014, Nocturnal Song http://www.rspb.org.uk/advice/watchingbirds/behaviour/
nocturnalsong.aspx, 24/06/2014
NRDC, 2014, Restore the Night Sky, http://www.nrdc.org/thisgreenlife/1209.asp, 3/5/14
Ekos, 2011, Dark Sky Park Economic Impact Assessment, Report for Forestry Commission
Scotland.
Bogard P, 2013, Bringing back the night: a fight against light pollution,
http://e360.yale.edu/feature/bringing_back_the_night__a_fight_against_light_pollution/2681/
, 3/4/2014
CfDS, 2014, Cost Calculator, http://www.britastro.org/dark-skies/calculators.html, 30/06/14
CfDS, 2014, Medical Problems, http://www.britastro.org/dark-skies/health.html, 2/7/14
CfDS,
2014,
Lighting
skies/crime.html#noreduction, 2/7/14
and
Crime,
http://www.britastro.org/dark-
The economics of global light pollution Terrel Gallaway, Reed N. Olsen, David M. Mitchell
2009
Spivey, A 2010, 'Light at Night and Breast Cancer Risk Worldwide', Environmental Health
Perspectives, 118, 12, p. A525, Academic Search Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 1 April
2014.
Rowlands J. (2015) A Baseline Assessment of Light Pollution Impact on Anglesey, North Wales, UK.
Isle of Anglesey County Council, Llangefni
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