NEWPORT'S SENSE OF NIGHT... AND LIGHT - NEWPORT LIGHTING MASTERPLAN | 2021 - Mayo Dark ...
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NEWPORT’S SENSE OF NIGHT... AND LIGHT NEWPORT LIGHTING MASTERPLAN | 2021
Credit is due to many people who contributed to this document.
Project and stakeholders team:
• Marco Palandella and Roberto Corradini, Lighting Design Workshop – Lighting Designers
The Working Group:
• Georgia MacMillan, Project Manager, Friends of Mayo Dark Skies
• Prof. Brian Espey, School of Physics, Trinity College Dublin / Dark Sky
Ireland
• Lynda Huxley, Swift Conservation Ireland
• Fiona Hopkins, Mayo Dark Sky Festival Director
• Liz McManamon, Newport Business Association
• Deirdre Cunningham, Heritage Officer, Mayo County Council
• Noelle Angley, Architect, Mayo County Council
• Ann Moore, Administrative Officer, Mayo County Council
• Ged Dowling, Terra Firma Ireland
• Stephen McVeigh, Civil Engineer
• Valentina Stella, Twistar, Graphic designer
“This project received funding from the Heritage Council and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in 2020”
NOTE
Due to the pages’ size it has not been possible to incorporate scaled drawings into this document. Pictures are included for illustrative purposes only, if not otherwise declared.
Prepared for Newport, Co. Mayo
© 2020-2021 Lighting Design Workshop. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced in any form, without prior permission from the authors.
1. Introduction 2.5 Dark Skies and Sustainable 4.6 LED lighting considerations 5.5 Recommendations for public
1.1 Executive Summary Development lighting
Community Engagement 5. Application Guidelines Suggested Product Specifications
3. Evaluating the Night for use
Goals of the Lighting Master Plan 5.1 Design Principles for Good Lighting
3.1 The value of the night – Circadian Design Considerations for Public
Strategy and Principles Suggested 5.2 Design Criteria
rhythm Lighting
Priority of Interventions Sustainable Energy Community
3.2 Existing public lighting 5.6 Recommendations for Residential
Recommendations Landmarks as Town Memories
& Commercial Premises Lighting
Sustainable Development Goals 3.3 Suggested priority of interventions Composing a Visual Hierarchy
5.7 Design and Planning for Viaduct
Summary Urgent Priority The Nocturnal Image as a
and St. Patrick’s Church.
1.2 A message from our Patron Medium Priority Marketing Tool
1.3 Foreword Low Priority Orientation and Way-Finding
3.4 Lighting for Safety Enhancing the Sense of Security Conclusion
Why is this plan necessary?
Foreword from the Lighting 3.5 Goals of the Lighting Master Plan Revealing the Town Potential
Designers The spirit of place Costs and Maintenance Appendices
1.4 Introduction to Newport What are the goals for Newport’s Quality Criteria • Appendix A – Swift report
1.5 Dark Sky Vision nocturnal landscape? • Appendix B – Light levels
1.6 Scientific Perspectives 5.3 Design Considerations about • Appendix C - References &
4. Strategy Quality of Lighting Bibliography
2. Consultation 4.1 Street Typologies Colour • Appendix D – Glossary
2.1 Stakeholder Consultation 4.2 Light Distribution Contrast • Appendix E - Contacts & Photo
Statements Credit
4.3 Light Sources Texture
Choice of Light Colour Urban vs Natural Scale
2.2 Population profile and comparative
4.4 Controlling Light Pollution Spectrum
statistics
4.5 Reducing Cost, Energy and Carbon 5.4 Design Considerations about
2.3 Biodiversity
Use Quantity of lighting
2.4 Heritage of Newport
Trimming and Dimming Adaptive Light Levels - Illuminance
Lighting Technologies Traffic Light Levels – Luminance
Adaptive Installation (TAI) or a Uniformity
Full Adaptive Installation (FAI) Colour appearance and colour
Dimming rendering
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This Lighting Master Plan, funded Community Engagement Strategy and Principles For example, wet surfaces reflect more
by the Heritage Council, seeks to
light into the night sky than intended.
provide best practice design and Information and evidence are key to This plan complies with the principles
guidelines for artificial lighting in the making effective decisions that of the International Dark Sky Association CONTROLLED – Light should be used
town of Newport, County Mayo, the place the community at the core of which are as follows: only when it is useful.
gateway town to Mayo International the process. In preparing this
Dark Sky Park. This is the first plan of its document we have engaged a USEFUL – All light should have a clear
Use controls such as timers or motion
kind in Ireland, driven by the needs of number of community groups in the purpose.
detectors to ensure that light is available
the community. It is intended to form Newport area encompassing interests when it is needed, dimmed when
a template for other areas seeking dark of the residents and business Before installing or replacing a light,
possible, and turned off when not
sky status or wishing to implement a community. We have featured the determine if light is needed. Consider
needed.
lighting policy. themes of environmental how the use of light will impact the area,
education, wellbeing, heritage, and including wildlife and the environment.
COLOUR – Warmer-coloured lighting
The strategies within these pages are sustainable tourism. Consider using reflective paints or self-
should be used whenever possible.
intended to act as a reference tool luminous markers for signs, curbs, and
Limit the amount of shorter wavelength
for councillors, town planners, steps to reduce the need for
(blue-violet) light to the least amount
engineers, architects, residents and The goals for this plan are: permanently installed outdoor lighting.
needed.
community groups. Our goal is to
provide practical solutions as well as a • Increase comfort and a sense of TARGETED – Light should be directed
solid base for setting feasible safety for the community only to where needed.
This report also references guidelines
technical and aesthetic guidelines • Compliance with National Lighting
laid out in European Standard EN
for coordinating future lighting plans. Standards Use shielding and careful aiming to
13201-1:2015 adhering to the street
If the designs detailed within this plan • Reconnect values of the night and target the direction of the light beam so
lighting classes appropriate to
are implemented, Newport, natural darkness that it points downward and does not
the Newport area, Institution of
County Mayo, will become the first • Provide an ecologically sensitive spill beyond where it is needed.
Lighting Professionals “Guidance note
Dark Sky Friendly town in Ireland. lighting scheme for the town
for the reduction of intrusive light”,
• Enhance the nocturnal atmosphere LOW LIGHT LEVELS – Light should be
GN01.
Guiding principle of Newport after dark no brighter than necessary.
The guiding principle of this document is • Improve street lighting uniformity
that lighting should be designed • Reduce energy use Use the lowest light level required. Be
elegantly and in a natural way, as if it has • Enhance Dark Sky Tourism Potential mindful of surface conditions.
always been there.
Page 1
Recommendations Longer term - public lighting on the Summary Within the pages of this document you
N59 through the town has recently Unlike other sources of pollution, will find the following:
This plan provides key actions and been replaced, at the time of this taking action to combat light
recommendations on lighting design for publication, with compliant warm toned pollutioncan have an immediate • An assessment on the existing
built heritage structures, private fixtures at a Correlated Colour effect. If the recommendations with lighting in Newport, identifying
domestic lighting, commercial lighting Temperature (“CCT”) of 2700 kelvin. these pages are carried out; a problematic areas;
and public street lighting. Should any retrofits be required to restoration of natural sky conditions in • Evidence of community consultation
Recommendations for landscape, these lights, they should be in keeping the Newport area by a mere 10% will with letters of support from local
festive events and sports events are with the strategy and guidelines lead to approximately five hundred associations, environmental groups
also provided within the section on provided in this plan. more stars becoming visible in the and stakeholders;
“Controlling Light Pollution”. surrounding countryside, plus • An evaluation of the need for
It should be noted that the installation appropriate levels of artificial light
improved conditions for nature, a
Suggested Priority of Interventions: of these lanterns has been welcomed and the impact of excessive light;
reduction in energy consumption
Following an evaluation of existing by the community and is a leading • Designs for lighting the key
and security for the natural asset
lighting practices, the needs of the example of lighting a national road in structures of Newport Church
that is Mayo Dark Sky Park.
community and the goals of this plan, the country. and Viaduct Bridge together with
the following priorities arise from this nightscape renders showing light
plan: designs within the town;
• Recommendations for light policy
Urgent – Implementation of lighting Sustainable Development Goals and best practice to qualify as a
designs for the Viaduct Bridge spanning Dark Sky Friendly Town
The concept of a dark sky policy aligns
the Newport River, and St Patrick’s with a number of the UN’s Sustainable
Church on Barrack Hill. Development Goals as detailed later
in this document. Recognition of
Medium - Public lighting on residential these alignments will assist local
and commercial roads intersecting with authorities in future decision making
the N59 in the town of Newport are on planning for artificial light in our
listed as a medium priority intervention, communities.
with dark sky specifications provided.
Page 2
1.2 A MESSAGE FROM OUR PATRON, DUNCAN STEWART
I am delighted that the Heritage Council
have found this project worthy of funding.
Light pollution threatens the future of Mayo
International Dark Sky Park and the natural
heritage of this ecologically sensitive region.
Newport is an historic town, providing a natural
habitat both by day and by night. This, along
with its proximity to Wild Nephin Ballycroy
National Park and the Nephin Beg mountain
range form a unique wilderness in Ireland, I congratulate Mayo County Council on
including the Marine Institute’s research facility embracing this initiative, by replacing and
and Fishery at Burrishoole catchment, which installing low-kelvin light fittings on
is one of Ireland’s premier Lough fisheries for the approach roads into Newport and I look
salmon. forward to their continued works to transform
Newport into Ireland’s first dark sky friendly
Newport also acts as a ‘gateway’ to a unique town.
tourism destination and nature experience,
which is complemented by this valuable •My This is thethoughts
summary first community
are: driven plan of its
sustainable initiative. It is a very appropriate kind to consider redesigning the nocturnal
place to demonstrate sensitive artificial lighting landscape – often overlooked yet our
that is compatible with its Dark Sky designation, revolving world depends on darkness.
helping to protect and restore its native insects • It will enhance the built heritage of the
and wildlife. town, whilst also preserving natural heritage
in tandem with community needs and
Light pollution is destroying natural darkness wellbeing.
with severe consequences. Scientists link light • It provides a framework of collaborative work
pollution to global insect decline, the death of including the local authority, international
millions of migrating birds, increased carbon experts, evidence-based research and
emissions, and disruption of human wellbeing. community needs.
This Lighting Master Plan will benefit nature
and enhance the ‘dark sky’ experience for Mayo is leading the way on this unique dark sky
visitors and the local community alike with initiative, and with the support of the Heritage
examples of sensitive lighting. It will also act as Council, this is presented as a ‘living lab’ and
an exemplary demonstration for other Irish a transferable plan for other areas to follow.
County Councils to follow and could become a I compliment the Heritage Council for their
‘game-changer’ for outdoor lighting techniques support for this project.
across Ireland.
Duncan Stewart
Producer ‘Eco Eye’ TV series
This photo was taken prior to the N59 lighting upgrades, showing a
mixture of light sources and glare from white LEDs.
Page 3
1.3 FOREWORD
The Friends of Mayo Dark Skies is a Finally, may we express our thanks to also lost sight of this natural night sky
voluntary group, established by local the lighting design team led by Roberto phenomenon and this figure is rising
people from Newport, Mulranny and Corradini and Marco Palandella. rapidly due to the increase in domestic,
Ballycroy to promote the goals of Mayo Completing this work remotely and commercial and public lighting over
International Dark Sky Park and to raise during the pandemic period, has been recent years.
awareness of light pollution. Our motto a challenge for us all but especially to
is “Let’s raise children who can name the team based in Italy. Having visited Without taking action to protect our
more stars in the sky, than stars on the Newport on just one occasion in the night sky heritage, there is a risk of losing it
screen”. past, their passion for dark skies of Mayo due to the growth of light pollution.
is very evident.
We wish to acknowledge The Heritage The recommendations provided within
Council for enabling us to commission Why is this plan necessary? this plan, promote informed change
the designs and specifications There is no doubt that artificial lighting through evidence-based research
within this Lighting Master Plan and has its place in our world and is invaluable solutions to create harmony and social
we are very grateful for their support. to our businesses, homes, roads and ambience in our nocturnal environment.
Our working group dedicated many recreation. However, when used As such, we promote the Danish lifestyle
hours on a very tight deadline for inappropriately or excessively, artificial concept of “Hygge” which means a cosy,
research, consultation and the lighting can cause light pollution. Many warm and welcoming environment.
contribution of content for this plan of us are not aware that light pollution In Irish we refer to this as “Teolaí”.
and we sincerely thank them for has adverse effects on the environment,
their time and expertise. In our health, biodiversity, and through This encapsulates the spirit of our dark
particular, may we thank Professor energy waste, on our climate. sky ethos and the tone for the content in
Brian Espey for the ongoing support the forthcoming pages.
he has shown to our project here in In the UK over 80% of the population
Mayo and the countless hours he can no longer view The Milky Way from Georgia MacMillan
has contributed to the technical detail their home due to light pollution. In For and on behalf of the Friends of Mayo
found within these pages. Ireland, over 50% of the population has Dark Skies
Page 4
Foreword from the Lighting are intended to be consistent with the
Designers ongoing dark sky movement and help
to protect, maintain and improve
Recognising the threat of light pollution the beauty of the dark sky, which is
to the night in West Ireland, a group enjoyed by Ballycroy National Park
of enthusiasts within the Friends of visitors and, at the same time,
Mayo Dark Skies, a community group improving the quality of life in
affiliated with the Dark Sky Ireland Newport’s urban and rural
network and a chapter of the environmental settings.
International Dark Sky Association
asked Marco Palandella and Finally, we want to recognise
Roberto Corradini, Italian lighting the visionary leadership of the
designers of Lighting Design Workshop, Friends of Mayo Dark Skies. Since we
to address the issue. first met, they have sought to
Thanks to the financial support of preserve the beauty of the night sky at
The Heritage Council – An all of this wonderful part of Ireland.
Chomhairle Oidhreacthta we Our work has been continuously
joined the team in September shared with them utilising their
2020 and began a concentrated insights and cultural experience of the
effort on research about biodiversity, territory and, therefore, we hope the
heritage, traffic, lighting, astronomy, benefits of this Lighting Master Plan
learning the development in dark sky can be shared with other Irish towns.
philosophy and illumination science
Roberto Corradini & Marco Palandella
allowing us to share this Lighting Master
November 23, 2020
Plan.
Interestingly, the short time allowed
for some amazing results. Our project
team shared the views of various
stakeholders aiming to find a
bespoke solution for Newport. Thus
these Guidelines
Page 5
1.2 INTRODUCTION TO NEWPORT
The beautiful Heritage town of Newport construction companies and made his
is situated in the barony of Burrishoole, family’s fortune. Grace’s path through life
County Mayo, on the shores of Clew eventually brought her back as royalty to
Bay. The Newport River (also referred the Newport area in 1961 accompanied
to as the Black Oak River) flows through by her husband, Prince Rainier Grimaldi
the centre of the town before entering of Monaco. During a number of visits
the Atlantic Ocean. There are pleasant to Newport in the 1960s and 1970s,
walking paths along its grassy banks, Princess Grace became familiar with the
continuing over the iconic Seven Arches birthplace of her forebears and even
viaduct bridge, built in 1892 to carry the purchased the family homestead. Many
Westport to Achill railway line, which Newport people fondly recall meeting
ceased operating in 1937. Newport the Princess when she visited Newport.
town is a fantastic base for exploring
the many natural and built heritage sites Of a number of beautiful buildings
as well as walking and cycling routes in in Newport the most dominant is St.
close proximity. Patrick’s Church, which was built in
1918 in the Irish Romanesque Style
One of the neighbourhood walks to the and has an entrance doorway that is
west of the town passes through Princess modelled on the one in Clonfert
Grace Park by the edge of the Black Cathedral, Co. Galway. The highlight
Oak river. The park commemorates the of the church is the stained-glass
Hollywood actress Grace Kelly who had window at the East end by the
a special connection to the area as her famous artist Harry Clarke. The
paternal grandfather hailed from the church dominates the skyline from all
townland of Drimurla near Newport. He approaches to the town and with
emigrated to Philadelphia in 1887, where the appropriate lighting the
he founded one of that city’s leading architecture of this magnificent
building would be greatly enhanced.
Grace Kelly The photo is from MGM and before her 1956 marriage
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Page 6Other features of interest in the For walkers, there is the 39
neighbourhood of Newport include the km waymarked Bangor trail which
ruins of the fifteenth century Burrishoole starts in Newport and finishes in
Abbey just outside the town. The Bangor Erris, Co. Mayo. This
Abbey was founded in 1469, but was challenging trail follows an old
abandoned in 1698 with the expulsion drover path (a path for moving
of the Catholic clergy under the penal livestock) which may date to the
Photo source OSI.ie
laws. It is situated in an idyllic setting on Iron Age. The trail passes through all
the shores of Clew bay and provides types of terrain, including the
a convenient venue for the Newport most remote mountain range in the
Astronomy Club to host observation country, the Nephin Beg Mountains.
evenings. The remoteness of this location
allows hikers to experience a solitude
For those seeking more active holidays no longer available elsewhere in
two major routes in the vicinity are of Ireland. Part of The Bangor Trail
interest. The Great Western Greenway traverses through Wild Nephin
is a 42km cycling and walking route Ballycroy National Park, which is
which follows the old railway line from home to Mayo International Dark Sky
Westport to Achill and passes Park.
through Newport over the Seven
Arches bridge. The Greenway is a
major tourist attraction which has
brought many visitors to the area and
provided income to the local
community.
Page 7
Photo by Mike KinsellaCountryside view from the heart of Newport town. Photo by Ged Dowling Page 8
1.5 DARK SKY VISION
“No one will protect what they don’t care together with social ambience and events for all the family to enjoy. This
about; and no one will care about what create an attractive design for Newport much-loved event is a highlight on the
they have never experienced” after dark. This vision will allow all county calendar, attracting significant
members of the community to safely business and visitors to the area
Sir David Attenborough enjoy the town’s unique architectural during the off-season period. Adapting
heritage, against a beautiful backdrop Newport’s lighting to “dark sky friendly”
of a natural night sky, free from light complements the festival ethos of a
In May 2016, a Gold Tier standard of pollution. welcoming, sensitive environment and
International Dark Sky Park was awarded showcases the town’s built heritage for
to Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, The project vision extends to public visitors to enjoy, creating an excellent
accredited as Mayo International Dark lighting and we have worked closely base to explore Mayo Dark Sky Park.
Sky Park (Mayo Dark Sky Park). The dark with Mayo County Council. We applaud
sky certification process is modelled their decision to rollout ecologically
on conservation programmes, such sensitive/dark sky friendly lighting on
as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the N59 surrounding the Mayo Dark
Biosphere Reserves and a Gold Tier Sky Park, with warmer toned lighting
award is the highest possible accolade, of improved quality in order to protect
meaning that Mayo is now internationally this sensitive environment. This lighting
recognised as one of the best places in project is the first of its kind in the
the world to view the wonders of the country and shows great commitment
night. to the region and to preserving the dark
skies of Mayo.
Newport is the gateway town to Mayo
Dark Sky Park and this flagship project Since 2016, the Mayo Dark Sky Festival
to create a Master Lighting Plan will has been hosted in the town of
safeguard the future of the International Newport, as well as the neighbouring
Dark Sky Park, which has become a communities of Mulranny and Ballycroy
valuable sustainable tourism asset to the (known collectively as the “Dark Sky
area. The plan also aspires to become a Communities”). The festival celebrates
leading example of nightscape design. the night skies of Mayo with a three
day experience exploring the realms of
Saving energy is not enough: the plan Science, Astronomy, Cultural Heritage
must address the needs of biodiversity and the Environment in a fusion of
Half the Park is After Dark
Commissioned Artwork by Tyler Nordgren, 2020
Page 9This map illustrates Newport’s proximity to the Mayo Dark Sky Park along
with our neighbouring Dark Sky Communities1.7 SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVES
“It is indeed a feeble light that reaches needs to be carefully maintained and sensitive, is particularly detrimental
us from the starry sky. But what would managed if it is to remain pristine and leads to a dramatic decrease in
human thought have achieved if we as it is very sensitive to artificial light the sky’s appearance to the unaided
could not see the stars?” contamination. As anyone who has eye.
Jean Perrin [French Physicist, 1879- looked up at the skies within the Park,
1942] it is a basic fact is that there are many In a more positive vein, a decrease in
more faint stars than bright ones, with sky brightness through a reduction in
most of these making up to four or light pollution leads to a linear increase
Although our proposal five thousand stars which are in the number of visible stars and light
addresses lighting changes only potentially visible in a dark rural sky. pollution is unusual amongst pollution
within the town of Newport, these sources in that an improvement
will have an impact on the visibility The light from stars, diffuse clouds will lead to an immediate effect. As
of the environment and night sky and the Milky Way, which has an example, near Newport every
farther afield. In terms of light travelled hundreds or thousands of reduction in the light output – and
impact, Newport is not the only years to us or from galaxies, which hence improvement in the natural
contributor to light pollution in the has traversed space for millions of sky brightness – by 10% will lead to
area surrounding Mayo Dark Sky years, is exceedingly weak when approximately five hundred more
Park although it is the brightest it reaches Earth. Because of the stars being visible in the surrounding
town within ten kilometres of the feebleness of these faint objects, countryside.
National Park boundary and so is an even a small percentage of emission
important player in the preservation from a poorly-constrained light will A reduction in light level can be
of the dark sky conditions in its drown the natural sky under a haze achieved by improved shielding
surroundings of artificial light. Even a relatively of existing lights, but the best
small increase in background light improvements are obtainable with
levels can have a dramatic effect in better designed modern luminaires,
The development of Mayo Dark Sky terms of the appreciation of the night reducing the time of use, and using
A colour-coded version of the light emitted to space in 2016
Park has showcased the beautiful sky. Poorly controlled light, such as light with a smaller blue content:
natural skies of Mayo and has had a produced by older light fixtures and/ our proposal aims to improve the
major impact in the county. However, or poorly controlled blue-rich light, lights of Newport on all three counts.
just like other resources, this sky to which our night vision is especially Blue-rich light, such as is produced
Page 11by conventional LED lighting, scatters impression of overbrightness and glare
strongly in the atmosphere and this of such lighting when compared with
is the effect that leads to the clear older sodium lighting. The LED lighting
daytime sky being blue due to scattered recently installed along the N59 has
sunlight. Our proposal requires the use a dark sky impact approximately 30%
of better controlled emission as well smaller than that of the majority of
as less blue (“warmer”) lighting over LED lighting currently being installed Photographs taken from the same position showing the appearance of
most of the town. Within the town limits nationally, and the LED lighting proposed the sky before (left) and after (right) the 2003 Northeast blackout in the
the reduced glare, better spectrum, for residential areas will be only 50% of USA, a massive power outage that affected 55 million people.
and controlled emission will lead to that level. When light is dimmed or the Photo by of Todd Carlson
improved appreciation of the sky above timing trimmed, this will reduce light
the town. levels further during these times. Within
Newport itself, the additional benefit of
The effect of full cutoff lighting will these improved lights is the reduction
result in reduced light travelling into of the blue light which can suppress
the surrounding countryside due to the body’s sleep hormone melatonin,
restricted emission near or at the to half or one quarter of that for a
horizontal, reducing the overall light 4000 Kelvin LED light.
background beyond the town boundary.
However, to obtain the best views of the The combination of reduced light
sky the human eye needs to be dark- travelling beyond the town boundary
adapted in order to make use of our and a reduced blue component will
sensitive night vision. Since this vision therefore have an important impact
is blue-sensitive any (bluish) white in the sky above the surrounding
lighting – such as that from most LED countryside by reducing the apparent
road lighting with a correlated colour light dome over the town and also
temperature (CCT) of 4000 Kelvin – will enabling a better view of the dark sky
have an impact on this dark adaptation. above the National Park area.
Indeed, it is this sensitivity to the blue-
light emissions which results in the
Page 12The current status of the light pollution in Mayo is provided by the map at:
www.mayodarkskypark.ie/learn/light-pollution-map
Page 1315th Century Burrishoole Abbey, site of Newport Astronomy Club’s night
sky observing sessions. 2. CONSULTATION
Page 142.1 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION STATEMENTS
St. Patrick’s Church
Inform, Engage and Support Communities
in the Protection of the Night Sky
As this project is driven by the needs
of the community in and around the
town of Newport, a consultation phase
was critical to analyse the needs of the
various stakeholder groups and
secure the support of the
community.
The statements in the following
pages represent the diverse interests Castlebar St. “Weavers Row”
behind this plan, yet are
underpinned by a common
objective to promote and enhance
the nightscape of Newport.
Railway Viaduct Black Oak River
Page 15
Photos: David Moran
Main Street NewportOur Community Groups
Burrishoole Parish by interest in the Dark Sky Festival. This lighting on approach roads and main untapped resource and wish the group
The parish of Burrishoole is very proud festival has brought many new visitors to shopping/ business streets. every success not only with developing
of our magnificent church which from the area which is of great advantage for We look forward to having a proactive the plan, but in implementing it in the
its elevated location on Barrack Hill has the town and its businesses. We think it engagement in relation to the lighting town in the not too distant future.
been a feature of the Newport Skyline is important that we do all in our power Plan & we are available to meet as
for over 100 years. Its commanding to ensure that the Dark Sky designation appropriate to discuss options and to Burrishoole Community Partnership
structure is both a testament to the is maintained and improved and so facilitate smooth implementation & We are pleased to support this Lighting
faith of our people and a symbol of the give the Light Management Plan our rollout of the plan. Master Plan for Newport and the work
central place that faith continues to play full backing. It is hoped we can lead the of the Mayo Dark Skies group. Our plans
in our lives. We are proud of our Church way in showing other areas the benefits Newport and District Development to build a new community centre in
and of what it means to our community of living in harmony with nature. Company (NADDCo) Newport are now underway and hope
and its illumination at night is a comfort NADDCo is delighted to support the to be able to open the doors of the
and sight of great beauty for the local Newport Business Association Friends of Mayo Dark Skies’ mission to new building in late 2021. We plan to
community. However, as a parish we are Newport Business Association develop a dark sky friendly lighting plan incorporate the recommendations for
very concerned about the environment welcomes the proposed Newport for Newport. As a company we have dark sky friendly lighting into our new
and are therefore keenly aware of the Lighting Masterplan. Newport is an worked diligently for over 25 years to build and look forward to welcoming
detrimental effect the current lighting exceptionally beautiful heritage town, develop Newport in a sustainable way, future dark sky events.
system is having on the natural life which has benefitted greatly from the helping to make it a better place to live
surrounding the Church and the natural Dark Skies Project thanks to our location in, work in, and visit, and we see the Newport National School
skyline. We are pleased to learn of the in close proximity to the Mayo Dark clear benefits of improving the current Newport NS welcomes the plan to adapt
Light Management Plan for Newport Sky Park in Wild Nephin. The business lighting, not only for our residents, but the lighting in Newport to eco-friendly
and give it our full support. community acknowledges the hard also for our visitors, local businesses lighting. Our school has benefitted
Getting artificial lighting levels right work put in by the team behind the plan. and potential investors. from hosting many educational events
is important for the parish; we think The Lighting Master Plan will enhance We view our beautiful heritage town as associated with the Dark Sky festival in
it will improve safety for drivers and the town in many ways, and the the gateway to Wild Nephin and Mayo the past.
pedestrians alike while giving our local businesses in the town are excited to Dark Sky Park and, with one of the The school is embarking on a building
wildlife a greater chance of survival. see Newport become a model town for largest astronomy clubs in the country programme in early 2021, part of which
Having seen some of the proposed best practice in environmentally friendly located in the town, we are very keen will include the reconfiguring of our
designs for our church it is clear they will lighting. to support any initiative that aids in their lighting plan to dark sky friendly lighting.
only enhance the architectural features We are delighted to see that different local stargazing events. We are delighted that this initiative
while allowing the beautiful night skyline lighting options can be used in NADDCo also manages the local is gaining traction and are happy to
to remain as God intended it. different parts of the town, taking into community tourist office and, through support it.
There is an increasing interest in our consideration biodiversity, energy this, we have witnessed first-hand the
environment and the attraction of our conservation, tourism and social & increase in interest from visitors in our
night skies which has been manifest heritage ambience, as well as effective stunning skies. We see it as a heretofore
Page 16Cuan Modh Day Centre Newport Tidy Towns Newport Historical Society
Cuan Modh and St Dominick’s Housing Newport Tidy Towns are pleased to Newport Historical Society feels that
Association are delighted to support the learn of the Lighting Master Plan and the lighting of two of the most historic
Friends of Mayo Dark Skies’ Mission and welcome the plan to adapt the lighting structures in the town, the railway
Lighting Masterplan plan for the town of in Newport to reduce light pollution and bridge and St. Patrick’s Church adds
Newport. We already provide a lighting save energy. It is important to our group significantly to the visual impact of the
policy around the Centre, which reduces because artificial light interrupts the town after dark. However the present
pollution and saves energy, while natural cycle of both plants and ecology. lighting has deleterious effects on
also keeping our tenants and visitors These artificial lights are concentrated wildlife and causes light pollution.
safe. We wish success to the group in along roadsides, hedgerows, and in We would be in favour of the Lighting
developing the implementation of its gardens of the town environments, Management Plan, provided the bridge
plans in the not too distant future. which represents a significant threat. and church are still illuminated.
Dr. Brian Lennon Newport Astronomy Club
As someone who works as a GP in Newport Astronomy Club is very
Newport Health Centre, I would like pleased to support the Friends of Mayo
to add my support to this initiative of Dark Skies’ initiative to develop a dark
Friends of Mayo Dark Skies to improve sky friendly lighting plan for Newport.
the lighting in the town. The Mayo Dark The club uses Burrishoole Abbey
Sky Festival has been a tremendous (approximately 2.5km from Newport) as
success for the town in recent years the site for its regular observing sessions
and it would be fitting that Newport and is very conscious of the light spill
would lead the way in developing an from the town. Any improvement is to
eco-friendly lighting system. The Health be greatly welcomed, not only for the
Centre in Newport is owned by the HSE benefit of the club but also to improve
and adequate lighting is necessary for the appeal of the whole area as a dark
health & safety and security reasons, sky destination.
but I feel a more energy efficient
and ecofriendly lighting system is
compatible with these objectives.
Page 17Conservation Groups
Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park/ Bat Conservation Ireland appropriate in the context the Mayo feeding and breeding requirements of
National Parks & Wildlife Service Bat Conservation Ireland supports the Dark Sky Park. all urban wildlife and that can potentially
(management of Mayo Dark Sky Park) ‘Friends of Mayo Dark Skies’ initiative to The use of high-intensity lighting not be replicated in all towns across Ireland.
The town of Newport is an important develop a wildlife-friendly lighting plan only has a negative effect on Swifts but
gateway into the Wild Nephin Ballycroy for Newport, Co. Mayo. Artificial light on other species of bird and wildlife BirdWatch Mayo
National Park and Ireland’s first Dark Sky at night negatively impacts on many such as moths and bats. With regard The Mayo Branch of BirdWatch Ireland
Park. This lighting management project wildlife species. A number of Irish bat to Swifts, they come to Ireland to are delighted that ‘Friends of Mayo
is not just important for maintaining species avoid lit areas, possibly as a breed and thus ensuring successful Dark Skies’ have identified the need
the Gold Tier Award received by the result of increased predation risk and breeding is extremely important to the for developing wildlife friendly & eco
Mayo International Dark Sky Park, but because their eyesight is adapted for long-term survival of the species. Over lighting for Newport.
it also demonstrates best practice in low and dim light conditions, among centuries, they have adapted their nest Clew Bay is an internationally important
environmental management where other reasons. In addition, artificial light site location and today over 90% of their area for birdlife, especially in relation
communities are minimising light at night can profoundly impact on the nest sites are located in old buildings in to overwintering and migration. It is
pollution and lessening their impacts life cycles of bats’ insect prey. our urban areas. High-intensity lighting internationally accepted that artificial
on the environment. Dark Sky friendly Therefore, Bat Conservation Ireland shining onto a building and from a light can impact negatively on circadian
lighting is important for maintaining welcomes a lighting plan that takes into building where a nest site is located, rhythms and bird’s ability to migrate
more natural conditions for our nocturnal account the needs of wild species by can hinder the entry and exit of the successfully due to disorientation
biodiversity and will prevent light avoiding the use of artificial light where parent birds to the nest to feed their caused by inappropriate lighting. These
trespass into the Dark Sky Park. Recent it is not needed, and where it is needed, young. Furthermore, many Swift chicks disruptions can mean the difference
improvements to the N59 road lighting by appropriately applying best practice fledge after dark and they have this between a bird’s success and failure to
around the Dark Sky Park, e.g. Ballycroy guidelines such as those developed by one and only opportunity to leave the survive.
village, are already very noticeable, EUROBATS and/or BCT (UK). nest and fly away successfully. If they Any positive changes in the delivery of
where shielded warmer toned street are hindered in any way and become lighting for Newport will have beneficial
lights are protecting the night sky. The Swift Conservation Ireland grounded they will usually be doomed impact on the birds of the area and
Newport lighting management plan will Swift Conservation Ireland is in full to die because few Swifts can take off should be encouraged.
be a further beacon to other towns and support of the ‘Friends of Mayo Dark from the ground - they have evolved for
villages in the vicinity of the Park, who Skies’ initiative to produce a model a life on the wing. The Vincent Wildlife Trust
will see the positive results of more adaptive lighting plan for Newport Therefore, Swift Conservation Ireland Vincent Wildlife Trust supports the
environmentally friendly lighting that town in Co. Mayo that is sensitive to fully supports a town lighting plan for Lighting Master Plan for Newport being
will protect our pristine skies. the surrounding environment and Newport that will be sensitive to the developed by The Friends of Mayo Dark
Page 18Skies. All our bat conservation work in Friends of Mayo Dark Skies, who work
the west of Ireland is focused on the to reduce light pollution and protect
lesser horseshoe bat, which is extremely the night sky for present and future
sensitive to artificial light, so we welcome generations. This plan will include the
initiatives to reduce the extent and design of sky friendly lighting for St
nature of outdoor lighting. There is now Patrick’s Church and the Viaduct Bridge
a substantial body of evidence showing and provide a vision for lighting that is
how illuminated areas are barriers to the aesthetically pleasing, safe and better
movement of bats, which prevents them for biodiversity and the environment.
from accessing suitable roosting sites This project will contribute to
or foraging areas. A darker environment safeguarding the accreditation of
will benefit a range of wildlife, including Mayo International Dark Sky Park, a
other bat species, invertebrates and valuable asset in sustainable off-season
birds that migrate at night. tourism, as well as being an excellent
conservation project. Leave No Trace
Marine Institute Furnace, Newport, Ireland wishes the project well and
Mayo hopes that the continued work of the
Based in Furnace, just outside Newport Friends of Mayo Dark Skies will result in
Town, the Marine Institute welcomes the a transferable plan for best practice in
plan to adapt the lighting in Newport to environmentally sensitive lighting that
more Dark Sky and eco-friendly lighting. will benefit many communities in the
Artificial lighting is known to impact on future.
many aquatic ecosystems, including
hatching and migrating salmon,
migrating eels and feeding bats. We
welcome any initiative to reduce such
impacts. The Institute has recently
adapted the lighting of its premises in
Furnace to dark sky friendly lighting.
Local playground in Newport’s town centre
Leave No Trace Ireland
Leave No Trace Ireland is pleased
to support the Lighting Master Plan
for Newport being produced by The
Page 19Tourism | Local Authority |
Professional Groups
Fáilte Ireland (Wild Atlantic Way) to support this plan to create a vision Electric Skyline Limited (Public Axo Architects
We are fortunate in Clew Bay to have for lighting at night in the town of lighting contractors)
As architects of the recent extensions
many unique and compelling visitor Newport. This is also highlighted as Electric Skyline fully supports and is
to Newport National School, and the
experiences which will help us position an important action in the up-coming delighted to be associated with the
architects appointed to design the
the area as a great place for visitors Clew Bay Destination and Experience ‘Friends of Mayo Dark Skies’ initiative.
next extension phase of the school (the
to come and explore. One of these is, Development Plan which is due to be This is a very unique project that would
provision of two additional classrooms),
of course, Wild Nephin National Park published in Q1 2021. not have come to fruition without the
Axo Architects is delighted to support
and the Mayo International Dark Sky hard work and dedication of local
the Friends of Mayo Dark Skies’ Newport
Park. Mayo County Council Mayo people and state agencies
Master Lighting Plan, and our intention
Fáilte Ireland has conducted Mayo County Council welcomes that worked so well together. To be
is to ensure that the lighting elements of
extensive research into the potential the development of the Newport internationally recognised as one of
the new extension will comply with the
of dark skies tourism and while niche, Lighting Masterplan. The international the best places in the world to view
recommendations of the Lighting Plan,
it can significantly increase tourism recognition of Mayo Dark Sky Park the wonders of the night in our very
with regard to intensity, direction and
revenues in the largely rural areas is a tribute to the combined efforts own County Mayo is something all
timing, as well as location. We are also
they are located as well as in the of the communities, businesses and involved should be very proud of. The
keen to build in swift nest boxes at the
gateway towns surrounding the parks, organisations. The heritage town scenery in Mayo is second to none
construction phase.
particularly in the off-season. of Newport is the gateway to Mayo during the daylight and now the Dark
As a consequence, it is vitally important Dark Sky region and the Lighting Sky project also reconnects us with
that we move to protect the integrity Masterplan represents a significant the natural beauty of the night.
of our Gold Tier International Dark milestone. As the Public Lighting contractor for
Sky Park and secure this designation The plan will help provide guidance the area we will ensure all design and
into the future. As the gateway town to enhance the cultural heritage and new lighting supplied and installed
to Mayo International Dark Sky Park, natural beauty of the Newport area. by Electric Skyline will comply with
Newport is perfectly positioned on Mayo County Council will continue requirements for dark skies by
the Wild Atlantic Way to support the to collaborate and engage on this using energy efficient lights that are
growing interest in astro-tourism. positive and sustainable community both kind to the environment and
Well-designed lighting will enhance project. aesthetically pleasing.
the visitor experience to the town
after dark and help protect the natural
resource that is Mayo International
Dark Sky Park. Fáilte Ireland is pleased
Page 20Neighbouring Dark Sky Communities
Mulranny Tourism Ballycroy Community
Mulranny Tourism supports the Newport We are proud to be a founder member
Lighting Management Project as it is very of the dark sky community groups
important for maintaining the Gold Tier supporting Mayo International Dark
status of The Mayo Dark Sky Park which Sky Park. The beautiful night skies over
is increasingly attracting ‘Astro’ Tourists Ballycroy and our neighbouring dark
to Mulranny and its neighbouring towns sky communities is a rare sight for many
and villages during the off peak season. visitors who travel to Mayo to enjoy an
Mulranny is a gateway village to the evening of stargazing away from the Newport’s River – a harbourside view towards the
Mayo Dark Sky Park and is part of its Viaduct bridge and town centre.
bright lights of an urban environment.
‘Dark Sky’ community. Three European It is therefore essential that we protect
designated Natura 2000 sites converge this natural resource from the growth of
at Mulranny and the environmental light pollution. The proposed Lighting
impacts of light pollution on the plants Master Plan for Newport will help
and animals contained in these sites protect Mayo Dark Sky Park for present
are as yet unknown, though effects and future generations to enjoy and we
of light pollution are numerous and fully support it.
are becoming more known over time.
The Newport Lighting Master Plan
will also encourage Mulranny and all
neighbouring towns and villages in the
vicinity of the Park, in collaboration with
the Mayo Dark Skies Group, to develop
their own lighting management plans as
they will see the positive environmental
results of this project.
Newport National School
Page 212.2 POPULATION PROFILE AND COMPARATIVE STATISTICS
To examine the potential impact of light population of Balla, has approximately
changes on the residents of Newport 50% higher light emissions. However,
(population 626 in 2016), census records despite the higher light output, the
were reviewed to obtain population potential for improvement in conditions
and age grouping statistics and these around Newport is higher as Balla’s
were compared to those for Balla, a proximity to Castlebar results in higher
similarly sized town in Mayo (population overall skyglow conditions beyond the
769 in 2016). The histograms of the age town’s immediate control. Conversely,
profiles for both locations are shown in although conditions are worse in
Figure 2.2.a, 2.2b and indicate an ageing Newport they are more susceptible Figure 2.2a Figure 2.2.b
Newport population, particularly with to improvement through local light Age profile for Newport showing an increase in the age profile of the A similar age profile for the town of Balla showing a relatively
residents of 65 or over. This result is changes and controls. population between 2011 and 2016. stable age profile.
significant for our current project as
contrast and glare become significant
issues for ageing eyes and hence care
should be taken to minimise glare and
encourage uniformity in any lighting
design.
A further comparison we can make
is in relation to the light emissions
from both towns which we take to be
representative of light pollution levels.
Satellite data for 2019 shows that
Newport, despite having 80% of the
Satellite observations
showing light emission from
the Newport to Balla region.
Note the relative darkness
in proximity to Newport and
the concentration of light
from its town centre.
Page 222.3 BIODIVERSITY
The small picturesque town of Newport In addition to the impacts on many
nestles on the north-east corner of Clew individual species, light pollution
Bay, with the Newport River (also known can also affect biodiversity (Bennie et
as the Black Oak River locally) flowing al 2018).
through the centre of Newport town,
merging with the sea to form a very fine Newport supports a wide range of
protected harbour. Clew Bay and part of habitats due to its coastal position.
the Newport River are each designated Within the town boundary is Newport
as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). River and its estuary and within three
This designation is part of the Natura kilometres of Newport, both Furnace
2000 network and indicates an area Lough and Lough Feagh are important
of European importance and covers ecological areas containing sensitive
aquatic and shoreline parts of Clew insect and fish life.
Bay as well as the river and environs
upstream. Habitats include marine and coastal
habitats and a diversity of terrestrial
Light pollution has ecological habitats from grasslands to woodlands.
implications on a whole range of bird, Newport River and estuarine habitats
bat, plant, aquatic and insect life. support Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar),
Most wildlife is sensitive to blue light, Sea Trout (Salmo trutta) and the
although some species are better Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera
adapted to cope with higher and/or margaritifera). Both salmon and sea trout
bluer light (Pendoley et al, 2020). The have been shown to be sensitive to light
result of changes from natural light conditions, with both smolts and adult
can be a reduction in biodiversity and salmon being sensitive to light down to
damage to ecosystems. In recent 0.2 lux. To put this in perspective, the
studies, species of grass and weeds light from a full moon is 0.3 lux. Other
have been found to be affected by species such as the European eel (found in
LED lighting, leading to follow-on nearby Burrishoole) synchronise
changes in insect populations (ffrench- migratory patterns with the new moon;
Constant et al 2016). the darkest phase of the lunar cycle.
This image shows the impact that colour temperatures can have on insects at night.
The lamp on the left is a warmer toned light, than the right hand side, containing blue-rich light.
Page 23Swift photo credit - Michael Casey
In terms of importance, the Atlantic whilst protecting the species that are in houses, but also in hollows in trees
Salmon is a species, which is already in sensitive to light, particularly blue-rich and ivy. Daubenton’s bats can be
decline and the Pearl Mussel is an white light. Moths and other night flying seen foraging on insects over the
endangered species. Lighting on the insects have been long-overlooked in river after dark. The Leisler’s bats
Viaduct spanning the Newport River terms of their importance as pollinators echo-locating call may sometimes
has been carefully considered in order and the resulting potential impact on be heard as it is just about audible
to protect biodiversity of the species plants due to light pollution. Note also to human hearing. All nine Irish bat
that pass along, or make their that light attraction or avoidance also species are protected under Irish and
home in, the river. These are has an impact on species distribution EU legislation.
compelling reasons to illuminate the in the surroundings. As the number of
riverside area sensitively. those insects in adjacent darker areas A solution to both insect and bat
is altered from that expected under light sensitivity is to use better
Walkways through the woodland that dark sky conditions biodiversity as well controlled lighting with a warmer
forms Princess Grace Park provide a as overall numbers can be affected. spectrum and also lower intensity.
view of the town and the river as well as of Of special interest to this plan is the
a good variety of native trees. Some of Over two thirds of mammals are active visiting population of Swifts
these trees are very mature and after dark as are many other species. . (Apus apus) that arrive in Newport
possibly dating from the 18th century It is well known that many species of to nest in the façade of St Patrick’s
when Newport House was built. This bats are sensitive to light, either being Church each year. Swifts spend
woodland is just a few minutes away attracted where there is a source of most of their lives in the air, sleeping
from the town centre and provides an prey, or avoiding lights due to the fear and feeding on the wing and only
excellent amenity, providing a chance of predation. Light barriers can block landing when at their nesting site.
for people to reconnect with nature. access routes from roosts to feeding Swifts breed between the months of
Learning about different species areas and have an impact far beyond May and September and spend the
deepens appreciation for the inter- the lit area. There is a variety of bat rest of the year in southern Africa.
connectedness of nature and shows species in Newport including Common
how plants and animals depend on and Soprano Pipistrelles, Leisler’s, and The Lighting Master Plan takes
others for their survival. Daubenton’s. The Pipistrelles can be account of current lighting impacts
This Lighting Master Plan provides a seen flying around soon after dusk such as the floodlights installed
guide for adequate levels of and are easily identified by their rapid at St. Patrick’s Church, which
illumination for the community, twisting flight: they frequently roost directly illuminate the swift nests.
Page 242.4 HERITAGE OF NEWPORT
In 2020 Newport was 300 years old. early 20th century. Nearby, Main today the 42km long Great Western
The intervening years have wrought Street shows its Georgian heritage Greenway, linking Westport to Achill
much change to the town, however, through some of the old doorways provides the longest such trail in
there is much that remains of the old which are still visible and also the Ireland.
town’s architecture. It is interesting to exquisite stone work which can be
trace the evolution of the town through seen on DeBille house. South of the Over the centuries, there were
its buildings and infrastructure. river the oldest of the original 18th numerous people who contributed
The town was founded by the century artisan houses remain on to the importance of the town. Many
Medlycott landlords through their Medlicott Street and their exposed of these people were responsible for
lessee, a Captain Pratt, in the early stone facades testify to their great the buildings we see today. Newport’s
years of the 18th century. The site of age. These dwellings were originally greatest benefactors in the early 20th
the town was chosen by Captain Pratt occupied by Quaker linen workers century were Martin Carey, a local
because of its green field nature and from 1719 who set up a linen industry merchant, and the Parish Priest of
its potential for shipping. Although that thrived until the early part of the the time, Canon Michael McDonald.
subject to tidal influences, the quay 19th century when it fell into decline Mr. Carey’s lasting memorial is St.
can provide up to 4.5 metres of water, with the rise of the town of Westport Patrick’s Church of 1912, designed
enough for 18th century trading ships to the south. by R. M. Butler in the Celtic Revival
of 500 tonnes or less. This meant that style, which derives from 13th century
Newport harbour could be used for One of the iconic sights of Newport is Hiberno-Romanesque, tempered
docking when shallower ports such the railway viaduct. This magnificent by the simplifications of the Modern
as Westport were unsuitable. red stone seven arch bridge was Movement.
constructed in 1896 to carry the rail The frontispiece is inspired by the
Newport is rich in architecture line from Westport to Achill. For a time doorway of Clonfert Cathedral. Another
dating back to the Georgian period. the trains trundled across the bridge lasting legacy is that of Father
Overlooking the quay from the north carrying passengers and freight back McDonald who gave his life insurance
is Newport House, a fine building and forth, but by 1937 the economic gratuity towards the commissioning in
constructed by the O’Donel family viability of the line was in serious doubt 1926 of the three-light east window,
who superseded the Medlycotts as and it closed. In 2010 the first stage of now regarded as the final masterwork
the major landlords in the area from the line was reopened as a walking of the Irish stained-glass artist Harry
the late 18th century through to the and cycling trail to boost tourism and Clarke.
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