A Cumbrian town has switched on its first array of dark sky and wildlife-friendly streetlights.
The lights, which have been installed along Cliff Terrace in Kendal, replace light-polluting footway lights which had been in place since the 1970s.
As a result residents will no longer endure unwanted light shining into their houses, and local star gazers will now be able to see unimpeded views of the night sky.
Members of Eddington Astronomical Society had raised concerns about the reducing ability to see star constellations from Kendal Castle public open space where they hold events for budding amateur star gazers.
The new heritage lights use modern, energy efficient LED technology to direct the light beam downwards along the length of path and their warmer colour to protects wildlife and reduces glare.
The new lights are mounted on restored original cast iron lamp posts which were reintroduced into the local street scene to reclaim the original character of the street.
Jack Ellerby, Dark Skies Cumbria project officer at Friends of the Lake District, said: “Incrementally light pollution has crept up on us through thousands of individual decisions.
“Although only three replacement lights, this represents a step in the right direction to reduce the sky glow pollution emitted from Kendal and Oxenholme.
“By working together we can make an instant positive improvement – reducing light pollution and energy bills, protecting the night sky and sensitive wildlife.
The new lights were activated on June 18. As well as casting no light pollution up into the night sky it’s hoped they will help reduce electricity consumption by over 50 per cent.
Cliff Terrace resident Antony Paddle said: “We now have lights that are entirely appropriate for a lovely early Victorian terrace in a conservation area, fitted with modern low-energy LED arrays that put light only where we need it.
“Apart from the benefits to nocturnal animals, our view of the night sky and the climate, we no longer have bright light shining up into our windows at night. As a wildlife and astronomy enthusiast, I am delighted.”
