RESIDENTS in the Keyford area say that they are unable to sleep at night because of newly-installed streetlights in the area.
According to the residents, the lights installed by Somerset County Council are too bright.
Complaints from Frome resident, Kit Sadgrove, has prompted the council to agree to add shields to the streetlights.
Kit said, “In how many ways could the council get it so badly wrong? The lights are absurdly bright. The council seems to have no awareness of the problem of light pollution.
“Secondly, the modern lights are out of character with what is a conservation area. Was the design even considered?
“And thirdly, white light deters bats and other species. The council has boasted that its new lights are cheaper to run, but it doesn’t seem to have a lighting policy for historic streetscapes or environmental issues. They’re complete ignoramuses.”
In response, a Somerset County Council spokesperson said, “The new LED lights are more eco-friendly, giving us an average energy saving of 66 per cent which is vital when it comes our efforts to reduce carbon emissions. They are just 32 watts each compared to the old 90-watt orange lanterns which had reached the end of their working life.
“In addition, the main beam of the new lights is focused onto the ground with minimal spill/light pollution and with a reduction in sky glow. We have consulted with Somerset Ecology Services and they have confirmed non-light sensitive bats can use the street lighting as a source of food as their prey gather around the light.
“However, if residents do feel their property is being impacted by stray light they are welcome to contact us and if needed we can install shielding where appropriate.
“You can find more information on this here: www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/report-a-problem-with-a-street-light/”
Picture: New ‘bright’ street lighting is keeping residents awake in the Keyford area of Frome.
