New Planning Policy to Reduce Light Pollution
Highland Council has introduced a draft planning policy focused on reducing light pollution from new developments across the region, aiming to improve views of the stars and the Northern Lights. This initiative is expected to support the growth of the Highlands' night-time economy.
Policy Potential and Perspectives
Vice convener and SNP councillor Ken Gowans highlighted that this would be the first policy of its kind in Scotland, stating it "opens the door" to night-time tourism opportunities. However, Scottish Conservative councillor for Skye, Ruraidh Stewart, emphasized the importance of street lighting for public safety and cautioned that additional planning regulations might hinder efforts to increase the availability of new homes.
Dark Skies and Natural Phenomena in the Highlands
The Highland Council region, characterized by large and sparsely populated areas, offers some of the darkest skies in Europe, according to the council. Weather permitting, and under suitable conditions, residents and visitors can observe the Milky Way and the aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.
Community Views and Development Concerns
Cromarty Firth Liberal Democrat councillor John Edmondson and Independent Inverness South councillor Duncan Macpherson noted that certain communities within their wards prefer to avoid street lighting that could spoil natural night views. Conversely, Ruraidh Stewart expressed concerns that increased planning restrictions might deter developers and impact the local authority's goal of constructing 24,000 new homes over the next decade.
Balanced Approach to Implementation
Ken Gowans assured that the policy would be "balanced" and not universally applied to all new developments. He praised planning officials for producing a "really important" report and reiterated:
"It opens the door to night-time tourism. The Highlands have some of the darkest skies in Europe and we need to capitalise on that."
The committee agreed that further work is necessary to refine the proposals.
Context of Light Pollution Policies in Scotland
According to the council's report, no Scottish local authority has yet introduced a new-style local development plan policy specifically targeting light pollution. However, West Lothian Council has approved non-statutory planning guidance, and Dumfries and Galloway Council issued similar guidance in 2020. Notably, Galloway Forest Park in south-west Scotland is the UK's first Dark Sky Park.
Additional Benefits and Safety Considerations
Highland Council highlighted that addressing light pollution could yield multiple benefits, including reduced energy consumption, enhanced protection for nocturnal wildlife, and improved sleep quality for residents. They emphasized that any measures adopted must be carefully balanced against safety requirements.
Recognition of Dark Sky Status
In 2024, the Isle of Rum, located within the Highland Council area, was designated Scotland's first International Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky International, underscoring the region's commitment to preserving dark skies.
