after planners refused its latest idea.

The Devonshire site will not be allowed to erect floodlights around its main arena and track after the Development Applications Board backed concerns from conservationists about light pollution in the sensitive area.

Although the Bermuda Equestrian Federation only wanted to use the lights one night a week for four hours, between September and March, the DAB thought it was too much.

And the refusal comes hot on the heels after a rejection of plans to develop a $1 million facility with harness track and arena at the Vesey Street site.

Environmentalists feared the idea would rob the Island of an important wildlife habitat, chopping down 3.8 acres of woodland.

And with the latest application, Government Conservation Officer David Wingate said the lighting could trigger the ruination of an oasis of untouched vegetation.

In a memo to planners, he said the increased night time activity from having the lights would lead to demand for street lighting on Vesey Street for spectators.

He added that the lights could disturb birds and animals in one of the last real dark spots in Bermuda.

And, although he said the actual visual impact of the lights themselves would be minor, permission could lead to the allotted times being extended.

His communication said "We should search for a location which is capable of supporting an optimum scale facility, without unacceptable environmental damage''.

Further objections came from the Bermuda National Trust, who said the plans would have a negative affect on the surrounding area, and would contravene the original permission, which was for practice only.

They also raised concerns about possible disturbance of Barn Owls.

A letter supporting the application argued that the lights would only be used on Saturdays, between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., for equestrian events.

It said the plans were not detrimental to the area and would not harm Barn Owls.

In addition, it argued that other venues are floodlit at night and their venture would provide entertainment for locals and visitors.