Surf Coast Shire Council is seeking feedback on a draft Public Lighting Guidelines and Policy.
The policy and guidelines will assist Council decision making about where, when and what type of public lighting is installed and maintained across the region and help to make consistent decisions about lighting on Council managed land.
“Public lighting helps to create a safer space for our community and makes public spaces more useable and enjoyable for everyone,” said Cr Libby Stapleton.
“We want to ensure lighting is fit-for-purpose and also considers environmental impacts. For example, in some locations, it’s better not to have lighting, or to have reduced lighting.”
“The Aireys Inlet District Association has also been working toward accreditation as a Dark Sky community, and we’re hopeful this new policy can support them in achieving this,” she said
Currently Council only has an organisational management policy for proposed new lighting. The draft guidelines and policy will provide a framework for not only proposed lighting, but maintenance and upgrading public lighting as well. These guidelines and policy will provide consistency throughout the area.
The guiding principles of the guidelines and policy are:
- Making better use of public open space.
- Assisting walking, cycling, public transport, and safe driving.
- Improving safety.
- Ensuring economically sustainable assets are installed and managed.
- Minimising the negative impacts of artificial lighting at night.
- Showcasing urban and natural features in an effective way.
- Maximising energy efficiency and minimising climate impacts.
The draft guidelines have considered community concerns with respect to environmental impacts from lighting, including supporting initiatives like Dark Sky accreditation for towns like Aireys Inlet.
The draft guidelines provide:
· A list of responsibilities for public lighting within Council.
· A process for determining if new lighting will be installed.
· Guidance and requirements for determining lighting types and pole types.
· An approval process for new public lighting.
· A process for complaints and requests about public lighting.
· Maintenance procedures.
Once adopted the guidelines and policy will be used by all council staff and any external contractors with a formal role in the design and management of Council-managed public lighting.
“Good lighting isn’t just about visibility – it’s about enhancing quality of life for residents, visitors and our native wildlife,” Cr Stapleton said.
“I encourage everyone to read these guidelines and policy and have your say.”
The survey closes on Friday 4 July.
Find out more and take the survey at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PublicLightingSurvey.
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