Lighting Assessments
What It Is
A Lighting Assessment evaluates the impact of artificial lighting from a proposed development on surrounding areas. It ensures external lighting schemes (e.g. streetlights, floodlights, car parks, or security lighting) comply with planning policy, minimise light pollution, and protect sensitive receptors such as homes, wildlife habitats, or transport routes.
Why It Matters — Risks Without It
❌ Planning refusal if lighting impacts aren’t properly assessed
📣 Complaints from neighbours about glare or intrusion
⚠️ Negative effects on biodiversity, especially bats and nocturnal wildlife
🧾 Non-compliance with Institute of Lighting Professionals (ILP) guidance or local planning policy
What’s Measured
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Light spill and obtrusive light into neighbouring properties
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Sky glow and overall contribution to light pollution
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Glare and visual intrusion on roads, pathways, or nearby dwellings
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Impacts on wildlife corridors, habitats, and dark skies
How It Works
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Review of proposed lighting design, fixtures, and locations
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Baseline survey of existing night-time conditions
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Modelling and prediction of lighting levels (using ILP and BS 5489/EN 13201 standards)
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Assessment of compliance with relevant guidelines
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Recommendations to mitigate impacts (e.g. shielding, dimming, or directional lighting)
Who It’s For
🏗️ Developers of residential, commercial, or industrial sites
🏢 Architects and planners requiring planning approval
🌳 Environmental consultants assessing biodiversity impacts
🏛️ Local authorities reviewing planning applications
What You Get
📊 A planning-compliant Lighting Impact Assessment report
💡 Clear recommendations to reduce light spill, glare, and sky glow
🧠 Expert guidance on ILP/BS-compliant design solutions
✅ Assurance your scheme meets planning and environmental requirements
Shine Light Responsibly, Not Excessively
With a professional Lighting Assessment, you can illuminate your project safely, meet planning requirements, and protect both communities and wildlife.
