| answer text |
<p>HM Government recognises that light pollution may have an impact on people and
wildlife, affecting their health and wellbeing, as well as the environment. Through
the 25 Year Environment Plan, we have committed to reducing all forms of pollution,
including light pollution. Defra works with colleagues across HM Government whose
policy areas affect the use of artificial light.</p><p> </p><p>The National Planning
Policy Framework makes clear that planning policies and decisions should limit the
impact of light pollution on local amenity. This is supported by guidance which emphasises
the importance of getting the right light in the right place at the right time, which
helps local planners and developers to design in ways that avoid glare and intrusion.</p><p>
</p><p>Decisions around lighting and reducing light pollution in towns and cities
are best taken by local authorities within their specific context. HM Government has
put in place a range of measures to ensure that light pollution is effectively managed
through the statutory nuisance regime which means that, under the Environmental Protection
Act 1990, local authorities have a duty to investigate complaints about light emitted
from premises which could constitute a nuisance or be harmful to health and have powers
to take action where there is a problem.</p><p> </p><p>The management of street lighting
in towns and cities in England is the responsibility of local highway authorities,
which have a duty under Section 41 of the Highways Act 1980 to maintain the public
highways in their charge, including street lighting. The Department for Transport
encourages all local authorities to replace their street lighting with modern luminaires
which can reduce light pollution.</p>
|
|
