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Dark Skies

Honeybee

Introduction - Statutory Duty

Under the 2021 Environment Act, public authorities (including town and parish councils) who operate in England must consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity in England.

 

Government guidance published on 17th May 2023 clarifies that, as a public authority, town and parish councils must:

  • Consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity.

  • Agree policies and specific objectives based on their consideration.

  • Act to deliver their policies and achieve their objectives.

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​Biodiversity policy​

Protecting Our Night Sky

Our parish is fortunate to enjoy some of the darker skies found in rural South Norfolk. A naturally dark night sky is an important part of our local environment, benefiting both wildlife and people while preserving the character of our countryside. As part of our commitment to biodiversity, the Parish Council recognises that reducing unnecessary light pollution can make a positive contribution to the natural environment.

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Why Dark Skies Matter

Artificial lighting has become a normal part of modern life, but excessive or poorly directed lighting can have unintended consequences. It can:

  • Disturb nocturnal wildlife such as bats, owls, moths and other insects that rely on darkness to feed, navigate and breed.

  • Affect the natural behaviour of birds and other animals.

  • Reduce opportunities to observe the stars and enjoy the beauty of the night sky.

  • Waste energy and increase carbon emissions through unnecessary lighting.

  • Impact the rural character and tranquillity of our parish.

By using lighting responsibly, we can help protect biodiversity while maintaining safe and welcoming public spaces.

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What Residents Can Do

Everyone can play a part in reducing light pollution. Simple measures include:

  • Only using outdoor lighting when it is needed.

  • Installing motion sensors or timers rather than leaving lights on all night.

  • Choosing warm white bulbs (around 2700K or lower), which are generally less disruptive to wildlife than cool blue-white lighting.

  • Directing lights downwards and using shields or hoods to prevent light spilling into neighbouring properties, hedgerows and the night sky.

  • Using the lowest brightness appropriate for the purpose.

These small changes can reduce energy use, lower costs and create a healthier environment for wildlife.

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Supporting Wildlife

Many species active after dark depend upon natural levels of darkness. Bats use hedgerows and tree lines as commuting routes, while moths and other insects play an essential role in pollination and form part of the food chain for birds and mammals. Reducing unnecessary lighting helps these species to thrive and supports the wider biodiversity of our parish.

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The Parish Council's Approach

Where the Parish Council has responsibility for lighting or considers future projects, it will seek to:

  • Use lighting only where there is a clear need.

  • Choose energy-efficient fittings with warm-coloured light where appropriate.

  • Ensure lighting is carefully directed to minimise light spill.

  • Consider the potential impact on wildlife and neighbouring properties.

  • Support initiatives that help protect and enhance our local dark skies.

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Working Together

Protecting our dark skies is a shared responsibility. By making thoughtful choices about outdoor lighting, residents, businesses and community organisations can all help to preserve the special rural character of South Norfolk while supporting local wildlife and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

Together we can ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the beauty of a star-filled night sky and the many environmental benefits that darkness provides.​

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AED Sign

Defibrillator located on the outside of Bramerton Christadelphians Meeting Room, The Street, NR14 7DN.

Email us at:

Parish Clerk: Mrs Yvonne Wonnacott

clerk@bramertonparishcouncil.gov.uk​​

Telephone: 01508 493134

Postal address: Parish Clerk, Bramerton Parish Council, Bramerton Village Hall, Easthill Lane, Bramerton, NR14 7EQ

Website Accessibility Statement

Privacy Statement

Please note that the Parish Clerk works part-time and is contracted for an average 6 hours per week.  The preferred communication method for enquiries is email, and the Parish Clerk will endeavour to respond within 5 working days.  

 

The office hours are Monday to Friday 9.30am - 4.00pm, excluding Bank Holidays.  Please note correspondence sent to the Parish Clerk may be forwarded onto the full Parish Council and/or to individual members of the Parish Council.

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