Cotswold National Landscape (CNL), formerly known as the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is interested in finding out how important Dark Skies are to those who live and work in the area.
They write: ‘Dark night skies are important for landscape, heritage, wildlife, recreation and enjoyment and health and wellbeing. The Cotswolds National Landscape (CNL) has a significant and extensive area of naturally dark night skies, allowing us to enjoy the nocturnal wonder and beauty above us.
Dark skies are an identified ‘Special Quality’ of our designated landscape but they are under continued pressure from increasing light pollution from commercial and domestic security lighting, development and street lighting. The area of darkest night skies within the CNL has diminished by more than 40% since 1993, with no indication this decline will be slowed.
We, at CNL, are currently undertaking a feasibility study looking into whether the Cotswolds National Landscape may in the future be able to strive for IDA Dark Skies reserve status. Our study includes a survey to understand how parish and town councils, local authorities, and a wide range of stakeholders view the importance of Dark Skies in the Cotswolds, what protection currently exists, and whether there is support for doing more.
If you would like the Parish Council to put forward your views on this important subject please email your views to us at sappertonFMPC@gmail.com or phone the Clerk, Babs Maloney on 01285 760 276.
We look forward to hearing from you.