Dark sky worries over floodlight plan

Jan 31 2013 by Doug Archibald, Galloway News

Floodlights for an equestrian development at a farm housing a red kite feeding station have come in for criticism.

However, claims they could affect the Galloway Dark Sky Park have been dismissed.

And councillors yesterday gave the go-ahead for eight downlighters round a paddock at Bellymack, Laurieston.

The planning applications committee was told Mrs A Johnstone was last year given permission to put up a shed to be partly used for equestrian purposes and develop a paddock, both of which are under construction.

The farm is a kilometre east of Laurieston, off the B795 road, and the new development is about 250 metres north of four houses on either side of the road.

It is a popular place for bird-watchers keen to get a look at the red kites.

Balmaghie Community Council’s prime concern was road safety.

Their objection said: “The access is at a dangerous point on the road and right-turning manoeuvres would be hazardous. Danger would be further compounded by slow-moving vehicles.”

Four neighbours believe “unshielded and inappropriate” lighting could have an impact on the Dark Sky Park.

They also said there is no pavement on a “dangerous” section of road and pointed out that approval in principle had already been given for another house in the area, which could add to the amount of traffic.

Council engineers said the Dark Sky issue could be “disregarded”.

The lights would be turned off by 10pm and the site does not fall within the Dark Sky core area or buffer zone.