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Preserving our skies: Light pollution and the need for darkness in the Borough

Ashford Borough Council is now consulting on a draft Dark Skies Supplementary Planning Document for the Borough. The draft SPD sets out advice and guidance for applications where lighting is an integral part of the development e.g. floodlit sports pitches, car parks etc. Applicants will now be asked to demonstrate they have considered where any external light shines, when it shines, how much it shines, lighting types and any possible ecological impact. These issues can then be considered by the council as part of the planning application.

In addition to this, the SPD also:

• raises awareness about what we can all do to minimise light pollution and why this is important
• raises the profile of dark skies and how this is an environmental asset that is often not considered but one we are increasingly at threat of losing
• Identifies a broad area which could form a ‘dark sky protection zone’ in the future.

The SPD will be available for public consultation between Monday 17^th March and Friday 25^th April 2014.

Representations relating to the SPD can also be made in writing on a representation form which can be downloaded here under 'Respond' heading.

For more details please 01233 330229 or email planningpolicy@ashford.gov.uk.

This consultation has now closed.