Public Lighting Design was engaged by the City of Kingston to design a solar lighting scheme for the newly realigned shared user path along Edithvale Road, Chelsea Heights. The project aimed to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, while preserving the environmental values of the adjacent Edithvale Wetlands, a RAMSAR-listed ecological reserve.
Our Approach
Given the site’s environmental sensitivity and proximity to migratory bird habitats, PLD developed a lighting strategy aligned with the National Light Pollution Guidelines for Wildlife, along with compliance to AS/NZS 1158.3.1:2020 and AS 4282:2019.
An initial audit was carried out to document the absence of formal lighting along the new path alignment. Two solar lighting options were then developed both designed to minimise light spill into the wetland corridor.
To meet Melbourne Water’s planning requirements, lighting heights were reduced to under 3 metres and luminaire selections were tailored for low glare and wildlife sensitivity. Additional bollards were added at key locations, including the curved entry near the Edithvale-Seaford Education Centre and speed cushion zone, where a minimum of 3.5 lux was achieved.
The design underwent several iterations to address feedback from Melbourne Water and the Department of Transport and Planning, including adjustments to setbacks and refinements to lux levels.
Outcome
The final lighting scheme offers a safe, solar powered solution that enhances connectivity while protecting the ecological integrity of the Edithvale Wetlands.
