Lighting guidelines

Contents | Introduction to lighting | Planning decisions | Correct lighting decisions | Technical decisions | Using the right equipment | Lighting specifications | Lighting checklist | Future work

Planning decisions

To get the most effective night-time image, planning has to incorporate factors that make up a lighting hierarchy.

• A holistic approach to planning
• Plan and implement so that light pollution is minimised
  • Direct light to specific objects and areas.
  • Use the correct use of fixtures and fittings.
• Use lighting equipment that is from the same family
• Correctly use a variety of techniques to give a feeling of inclusiveness in a lighting site
  • Techniques include up/down light, wash light, spot light, etc
• Accentuate three dimensional effects, e.g. building features etc
• Use lighting maintenance regime that is part of the asset management plan
• Use a lighting plan or framework
• Planning flowcharts for correct lighting
• Planning lighting taking into account the environment

Use a lighting equipment from the same family

this will help ensure:

• consistency in visual appearance
• flexibility of the use of a lantern in a variety of light furnishings

Typical lighting equipment currently in use.

Accentuate three dimensional effects

By making use of:

• colour lighting
• colour temperature
• contrast.

Use lighting plan or framework

A lighting plan or framework that:

• demonstrates a clear understanding of the desired lighting outcomes for the area or street being lit
• incorporates consultation with local stakeholders where appropriate
• has a process that increases local ownership by including the input of local stakeholders where appropriate.

Planning lighting taking into account the environment

Environmental considerations need to be made for factors such as night sky pollution, glare and spill light. A further discussion on environmental considerations is done below.

Reducing light pollution, light trespass and glare

• Switch off lights when not required for safety, security or enhancement of a night-time theme. For example, limitation on lighting levels between agreed hours (off between 11pm and dawn).
• Direct light downwards wherever possible to illuminate a target, not upwards. Where up lighting is required, use shields and/or baffles so that the light does not overshoot its target, thereby ensuring spill is reduced to a minimum.
• Use specifically designed lighting equipment that minimises the spread of light above the horizontal plane.

Dark sky best practice

Environmental issues

Published December 2008