MEC was commissioned by Taylor Wimpey Limited to undertake a Daylight, Sunlight and Overshadowing Assessment for the proposed residential development at Kingston Grange, Gaydon, Warwickshire. The Reserved Matters application related to Phases 2d and 2e pursuant to the Outline Planning Permission.
A key consideration for the assessment was the retained trees surrounding the site and their potential impact on daylight and sunlight availability for new dwellings. In particular, the proximity of mature trees created the need for detailed modelling and analysis to determine overshadowing effects and highlight where mitigation might be required.
Our lighting team carried out a detailed technical assessment in line with BRE Guidance (Site Layout Planning for Daylight and Sunlight: A Guide to Good Practice, 2022) and BS EN 17037 standards.
Using 3D modelling and light simulation software, we evaluated daylight, sunlight and overshadowing conditions for the proposed dwellings and associated garden spaces. The study included daylight testing through Vertical Sky Component, Daylight Factor and Internal Illuminance calculations, as well as analysis of sunlight exposure to ensure living spaces would receive adequate levels of direct light. Overshadowing was also assessed to demonstrate that gardens would achieve the required two hours of sunlight on the spring equinox. Alongside this, we considered the influence of retained trees, reviewing their reflectance and seasonal transparency to understand their impact on light availability.
The results confirmed that the majority of dwellings within the development would achieve good access to daylight and sunlight, meeting or exceeding the relevant criteria. The exception was Building 5, which was significantly affected by the close proximity of several mature trees that restricted available daylight. To address this constraint, we identified a number of potential mitigation measures, including the selective removal of certain trees, raising canopy heights, and thinning branches to increase transparency. Removing one of the larger trees was highlighted as the most effective option to improve daylight levels for this property.
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