Under the Clean Neighbourhood and Environment Act 2005 light pollution will find itself on similar footing to noise pollution and residents plagued by intrusive bright lights will be able to ask the authorities for an abatement order if the light is ‘prejudicial to health or a nuisance’.

Fines of up to £5,000 will be meted out to individuals who refuse to comply, while businesses could face penalties of up to £20,000.

The legislation has been warmly welcomed by astronomers and others wishing to view the night sky in all its glory rather than blotted out by artificial light, but the British Astronomical Society-led Campaign for Dark Skies has warned that while it can be seen as progress, it will not stamp out light pollution.

It will also press for a coherent Government policy specifically including the night sky as part of the environment which DEFRA is charged to protect and continue to educate the public, retailers, manufacturers and decision-makers about the need to save energy and money while helping the environment through sane lighting practices.

Source: www.edie.net (accessed 13/02/06)

(Taken from PLUS, January 2006)

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