Locals in Weymouth, Dorset have found a rather bright way to protest blinding streetlights lining the seafront street — by attaching a frilly pink lampshade to one of the lights.
People living from across the seafront have been complaining about the Victorian-style lampposts, comparing it to bright car headlights directly focused at their respective houses. John Murphy, a resident, said: “It’s like a car headlight. Even from a distance it lights up our garden. It’s like having a torch shone in your eyes.” Some, like Val Cole, are complaining about the spoiled view of the seafront due to the strong lighting. “We used to have an uninterrupted view and now the light has spoiled that. The light comes directly into our room. It’s light pollution.”
Community Concerns and Reactions
The issue of light pollution is not just a minor inconvenience for the residents; it has broader implications for the community. Excessive artificial lighting can disrupt sleep patterns, affect local wildlife, and diminish the natural beauty of the night sky. Residents have voiced their concerns through various channels, including community meetings and social media platforms. The frilly pink lampshade, while humorous, underscores the seriousness of their grievances.
Local businesses have also been affected. Some restaurant owners along the seafront have reported that the intense lighting detracts from the ambiance of outdoor dining areas. “Our customers come here to enjoy a meal with a view of the sea, not to feel like they’re under a spotlight,” said one restaurant owner. This sentiment is echoed by several other business owners who feel that the lighting is detrimental to the overall charm of the area.
Official Response and Future Plans
The Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, through its spokesperson Howard Legg, has already apologized for the inconvenience brought about by the streetlights. “We’re sorry if anyone has been disturbed by the light. When this scheme was in the planning stage the borough council tried to take into account all residents’ views.” However, the council’s efforts to address the issue have been met with mixed reactions. Some residents feel that their concerns were not adequately considered during the planning phase.
In response to the growing discontent, the council has announced plans to review the lighting scheme. This review will include consultations with lighting experts to explore potential solutions, such as dimming the lights during certain hours or installing shields to direct the light away from residential areas. The council is also considering the use of smart lighting technology, which can be adjusted based on real-time conditions and community needs.
Environmental groups have also weighed in on the issue, advocating for more sustainable lighting solutions. They argue that reducing light pollution is not only beneficial for human health but also for the local ecosystem. Birds, insects, and other nocturnal creatures are particularly vulnerable to the effects of artificial lighting, which can disrupt their natural behaviors and habitats.
The frilly pink lampshade has become a symbol of the community’s resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. While it may seem like a lighthearted gesture, it has sparked a serious conversation about the impact of urban planning decisions on local communities. As the council moves forward with its review, residents remain hopeful that a more balanced solution can be found.
via Arbroath
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