Solar Glare

Developers are increasingly being required to submit Solar Glare assessments to local authorities and other stakeholders involved in the application process, particularly if the development is next to railway infrastructure or key vehicular junctions.

Often referred to as ‘Glint and Glare Analysis’, we are experts in providing technical analysis and reports that are accepted by local authorities, Network Rail, Transport for London and others. Our specialist software can account for proposed façade finishes and related reflectance values as required.

We have many years of experience liaising with Network Rail and other stakeholders involved in the planning process. Network Rail have access to measured survey information of the railway, including track positions, indication of direction of train travel and infrastructure locations such as signalling equipment. We would make use of this data or capture our own using our Digital Reality Modelling process and agree the position of sensitive glare test point with all stakeholders.

To advise on the likelihood of solar glare occurring, we would build a 3D computer model and run an analysis. This analysis will identify potential glare instances originating from the proposed buildings that are visible to train or vehicle drivers using the nearby railway network and road junctions. We have developed specialist software to analyse this type of occurrence, with the outputs as follows: -

Calculation of annual sequence.
Calculation of glare calendars at different locations.
Production of simulated views from the different locations

We find that 2D images and written reports go some way to provide comfort on the glare related risks of a proposed development. However, video simulation is increasingly being required on many developments. We have developed a bespoke process to create Digital Reality Modelling which allows us to accurately represent a development proposal in context and provide video simulation to better communicate the likely risks.

With offices in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol & Plymouth we are able to provide Solar Glare advice on projects all around the UK.

For further advice on Solar Glare assessment or any other aspect of Daylight and Sunlight for planning, please call our Daylight & Sunlight Enquiry Line on 020 4534 3138.

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