EV charging station light impact assessment

Chicklade service station, located on the A303 in Wiltshire, has just got the go-ahead from planning and will be transformed into one of the UK’s next EV superhubs by InstaVolt.

With the rise in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, InstaVolt is expanding its network to meet demand and this project follows on from the successful superhub in Winchester, which DFL were also a part of.

As part of planning and environmental obligations, DFL were commissioned to conduct a Lighting Impact Assessment (LIA), a key component due to the rural nature of the site and the need to mitigate ecological and visual impacts.

The Issue

The project site, though strategically located along the A303, lies within a relatively dark rural area, close to sensitive ecological habitats and residential zones. The introduction of 24/7 lighting for EV charging and facilities risked:

- Sky-glow and light spill into nearby natural habitats

- Potential disturbance to nocturnal wildlife, especially bats

- Glare or nuisance lighting impacting nearby properties or road users

As with all Local Planning Authorities, Wiltshire Council required strict compliance with lighting standards as per the ILP GN01 – Obtrusive Light, ILP GN08 – Bats and Artificial Lighting, ILP PLG 04 – Lighting Impact Assessments, BS 5489 and BS EN 13201 lighting design standards.

The Solution

To address these concerns, DFL implemented a comprehensive Lighting Impact Assessment, which included:

- Baseline lighting surveys: Evaluating current ambient light levels in and around the site

- Ecological receptor mapping: Identifying habitats and corridors for bats and other sensitive species

- 3D light modelling: Using isolux contour maps to simulate how light would fall across the landscape

- Fixture selection and placement: Specifying shielded, low-glare luminaires with downward beam angles

- Dimming controls and timers: Ensuring lights dim or shut off during inactive periods to preserve darkness

- Compliance reporting: Demonstrating adherence to ILP guidance and UK lighting standards

Through this, we ensured lighting stayed within safe luminance levels, reduced light spill beyond the site, and avoided illuminating hedgerows or tree lines used by bats.

The Result

The development will not only include 30 ultra rapid EV chargers but also a large café and farm shop.

The Chicklade superhub project successfully met its planning requirements and as a result Planning Approval was granted by Wiltshire Council.

InstaVolt can now proceed with development, confident that environmental concerns were addressed and drivers will benefit from a modern, well-lit, safe charging environment without ecological trade-offs The site will soon serve thousands of EV drivers along the A303 while remaining a responsible and sustainably integrated part of the local landscape. Designs for Lighting’s expertise helped create a balanced solution - meeting infrastructure needs while maintaining environmental stewardship.

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