Members of The Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee will meet on Thursday 28 May 2026 to evaluate a new planning policy designed to manage lighting requirements for future developments subject to planning control.

The proposed Dark Skies Draft Planning Policy details how the local authority can successfully lower light pollution levels throughout the Highland region. The document focuses on driving environmental protection, sustainable development, and financial and tourism advantages for local communities. It will have no bearing on current, existing lighting setups that fall outside of planning controls.

Cllr Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, commented: "Highland is home to some of the darkest skies in Europe that score low on the Bortle scale (measurement of light pollution). Highland is already recognised internationally, and communities across the region are increasingly interested in achieving formal "Dark Sky" status. This will not only enable people to enjoy Highland's stunning scenery in daytime but our amazing skies and glorious Northern Lights at night.

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"The proposed policy approach would provide a clearer and more consistent framework for managing lighting in new developments."

Committee members will be asked to review the extensive advantages of lowering light pollution, which include:

• Lower energy use, costs and carbon emissions.

• Protection of wildlife and nocturnal habitats.

• Improved health and wellbeing, including better sleep.

• Enhanced opportunities for tourism, particularly stargazing.

Additionally, the committee report will ask representatives to weigh up the practicalities of executing these light pollution reductions, such as:

• The need for clearer planning policy and guidance.

• Use of technical standards for lighting design and installation.

• Balancing reductions in lighting with safety and security requirements.

• Integration with existing planning controls and Council practices, such as street lighting management.

The committee is being asked to approve the development and subsequent consultation of a dedicated light pollution reduction policy, which will eventually feature in the upcoming Highland Local Development Plan. Members will also vote on whether interim technical guidance should be formulated and presented back to the committee for sign-off before the end of 2026.

If agreed by the committee, council officers will commence the drafting of policy proposals and launch a public consultation with local residents, business owners, and relevant stakeholders as part of the Proposed Plan later in 2026.

An interim framework of technical guidance will also be put together to encourage early implementation while the definitive, comprehensive policy is being finalised.