Glint and Glare Assessment for Building Developments

Failure to address these issues can result in refusal of permission to develop a project and/or increase local opposition to the development.

What Our Assessment Provides

Glazing, glass façades, and rooftop solar panels can reflect sunlight toward sensitive receptors. These reflections – known as glint and glare – may cause discomfort for neighbours, distraction for drivers, or risks to aviation operations.

For new buildings, particularly in urban areas or close to airports and major transport routes, glint and glare assessment is often a requirement for planning consent. Addressing the issue with clear evidence avoids disputes, redesign costs, or refusal.

An assessment demonstrates whether your building design will create unacceptable reflection impacts, and where necessary, identifies solutions to reduce risks.

Aviation Receptors

Airports need to be confident that façades or rooftop panels will not distract pilots or air traffic controllers. Assessment therefore look at:

• Air traffic control (ATC) personnel
• Pilots on final approach
• Other pilots in the area, such as those flying circuits, taxiing, or operating helicopters

We check whether solar reflections could be seen, how bright they might be, and where they would appear from the observer’s point of view.

Roads and Dwellings

Road safety and residential amenity are important considerations. Key receptors are:

• Drivers on regional or national roads within 1 km
• Homes within 1 km of the development
• Public footpaths and other places where people may be affected

For drivers, we assess whether solar reflections could be distracting. For residents, we also consider how long any glare might last, since people at home are usually in fixed positions.

Railway Operators

Railway safety assessments focus on:

• Train drivers on lines next to proposed solar panels
• Railway signals near proposed panels

Impacts are determined by whether reflections are predicted and their position relative to the observer.

How We Support Your Project

With over 1,600 glint and glare assessments completed worldwide, Pager Power brings extensive experience to every project. Our reports provide comprehensive analysis of all relevant receptors, including aviation, transport, and neighbouring properties. We use our own industry-leading guidance, aligned with current best practice, to ensure each assessment is technically robust and planning-compliant.

Most importantly, our reports are written with clarity in mind — presenting modelling results alongside clear explanations and visuals. This makes outcomes and recommendations accessible to planners, consultees, and other stakeholders, helping your project progress smoothly.

Related Services