I refer to your letter dated 11 March 2003 regarding the above and I apologise for the delay in replying.

  I have now had an opportunity to look at the details attached to planning permission A/100/91 which permitted a driving range on land north of the A259, Rustington. Whilst it was noted, with some concern, that the lights are fixed to the ridge of the buildings, they were deemed to be acceptable as a minor amendment to planning application A/100/91. The only requirement was that lights should be angled down with no direct light glare towards the highway. Consequently, there are no controlling conditions which I am able to enforce. For your information on 4 September 1998 the Highway Engineer inspected the lights and concluded there is no distraction caused to passing traffic by the floodlights.

  With regard your point to clauses in the Local Plan in relation to light pollution I have confirmed with my manager at the time of this application there were none specifically relating to this issue. However, all new applications will be dealt with under Arun District Local Plan 2003 which does give guidance in dealing with light pollution and this information can be found under Policy GEN33 which states:

"Planning permission will be permitted for proposals which involve outdoor lighting schemes subject to:

(i)  no adverse impact on neighbouring uses or the wider landscape;

(ii)  light levels being the minimum required for security and working purposes; and

(iii)  minimising the potential glare and spillage,

Where appropriate, the Local Planning Authority will seek to control the times of illumination.

Reason: to protect the quality of the environment."

  In view of this there is no further action I can take and my file will now be closed.

  Thank you for your interest in this matter.

3 April 2003