More funding could be on the way to help Kendal tackle its light pollution.

Nick Taylor from Cumbria vision, is pushing for the Kendal Town council to fund research to tackle light pollution.

He says in south Cumbria and the lakes more money needs to be spent now researching the problem at a local level saying, “we just need to get the right light shining where the light is needed and educate the young that dark isn’t bad and light is not all good. Road lighting and street lighting have been looked at, but lighting for security will have to change to not pollute the night sky.”

Cllr Johnathan Cornthwaite who represents Mintsfeet Ward in Kendal was concerned for businesses saying, “this could have an impact on businesses if efforts to tackle light pollution go too far.”

Cumbria Vision was quick to respond saying, “We propose that the light pollution order covers the worst problems only. Most could be resolved quite quickly by putting shielding on the lights like the ones at the Castle. Businesses will see the benefits.

The committee heard that the four crime prevention officers who cover Cumbria are keen to learn about the issue, but they have national guidance that they can’t change.

Cllr Giles Archibald from South Lakeland District Council has opened up a fund for biodiversity and has suggested that Kendal Town Council would have to apply for funding to research what’s needed, saying, “there is a £20,000 set aside for community projects, perhaps a £1000 could be forthcoming to help this initiative.

Light pollution competes with starlight in the night skies in Cumbria and has been raised in Parliament.

Kendal town council voted overwhelmingly to approach the district council to help fund the research.