§ Mr. LuffTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement of his policy on light pollution and its control by the planning system. [24457]
§ Ms KeebleLight pollution from development can be a material consideration in planning decisions. In recognition of this, the former Department of the 597W Environment published in 1997 "Lighting in the countryside: towards good practice". This guide was based on comprehensive research including a desk study of existing policies, controls, procedures, standards and advice, consultations and structured interviews with planning and highway authorities and a wide range of other interested parties. It provides a valuable reference source and tool for preventing and alleviating the adverse effects of poorly designed and installed lighting schemes on the English countryside. The good practice it sets out can, where appropriate, be material to individual planning decisions by local authorities, inspectors and the Secretary of State.