New buildings need to ensure that they do not reduce daylight levels in neighbouring buildings to an unacceptable degree. As a rule of thumb for residential buildings this will require at least 12 metres clearance between the primary windows of habitable rooms and adjoining buildings to retain adequate day lighting.
Natural daylight has a clear positive influence on people’s wellbeing. The living or working environment is more comfortable when illuminated naturally as it provides a better quality of light and the required minimum daylighting standards for new buildings are set out in BS 8206-2. Given this standard – Local Authorities are increasingly requesting these specialist reports in support of planning applications.