New Super Bright Floodlights at Asda

Chandler’s Ford Residents Voice Concerns Over New Asda Floodlights

The introduction of new floodlights at the Asda supermarket in Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire, has sparked quite a bit of controversy. Initially installed to tackle complaints about insufficient lighting in the car park, these lights have now become a new problem of their own. Emitting an intense brightness, they disturb residents and motorists even from as far as 0.75 miles away, leading many to describe them as “blinding.”

How the New Lights Affect the Local Community

Night Glow Disturbing Nearby Homes

Dave Grubb, who lives on Keeble Road, nearly a mile from Asda, notes that the floodlights emit a “horrible glow” visible from his house. His wife Tracey experienced the intensity firsthand, almost colliding with the kerb due to the overpowering brightness while driving into the supermarket. Since these lights were installed in late August, locals have been questioning the necessity of such powerful illumination.

Safety Concerns for Drivers

The floodlights also pose a safety risk for drivers on Bournemouth Road near the supermarket. Many drivers complain that the lights “absolutely blind motorists,” particularly problematic on a road already known for its challenges. Seamus Larkin, a night shift worker at the supermarket, highlights the dangers, pointing out the potential for accidents due to the lights’ overwhelming glare.

Environmental and Community Challenges

Although intended to enhance security and visibility in the car park, the floodlights seem to be causing more issues than they solve. A resident expressed concerns over their environmental impact, criticizing the light pollution and the disturbance it causes in the neighborhood. The excessive brightness has left many feeling as though the character of Chandler’s Ford at night has been permanently altered.

Asda’s Actions and Government Response

Asda’s Initial Steps

Despite not receiving formal complaints, Asda is aware of the concerns and has sent engineers to assess the situation. The supermarket chain is open to making necessary adjustments to the floodlights to mitigate community disturbance while maintaining safety.

Local Government Involvement

The Eastleigh Borough Council is investigating the issue to ensure the lighting adheres to safety and environmental standards. Residents are hopeful that a balanced solution can be achieved that satisfies both the needs of the supermarket and the wellbeing of the community.

The Broader Issue of Light Pollution

The Effects of Light Pollution

Light pollution goes beyond mere inconvenience, affecting human health and the natural environment. Residents are concerned about the potential long-term effects of the floodlights if they remain unchecked, impacting sleep patterns and overall stress levels.

Finding the Right Balance

While maintaining safety in the supermarket car park is crucial, the need for sustainable lighting solutions is equally important. The community urges for a solution that respects both safety concerns and environmental impact, striving for a balance that reduces over-illumination and its associated problems.

As new super bright floodlights at Asda light up Chandler’s Ford, residents and drivers express concerns about the impact. Learn how the community and local authorities are tackling the glaring issue.

FAQs About the New Super Bright Floodlights at Asda in Chandler’s Ford

1. Why were the new floodlights installed at Asda?
The floodlights were installed in response to customer complaints about poor lighting in the car park. Asda aimed to improve safety and visibility for its customers, but the lights are now causing issues for residents and motorists due to their extreme brightness.

2. How are the new lights affecting the local community?
Residents living up to 0.75 miles away are experiencing disturbances from the bright glow of the floodlights, and drivers nearby are reporting visibility problems, calling the lights “blinding.” Some fear the lights may even pose safety risks on the road, especially at night.

3. What is being done to address the concerns?
Asda has acknowledged the issue and sent engineers to assess the situation. They’ve promised to make adjustments if necessary. Eastleigh Borough Council is also investigating to ensure the lights comply with safety and environmental standards. The community is hoping for a solution that balances safety and reduces light pollution.

Sources BBC