Cornwall’s exquisite nature and breath-taking views also extend to when the sun goes down and the stars come out with Bodmin Moor the focus of a bid for international dark sky park status.
Cornwall Council have lodged a bid and if they are successful a two mile zone will be created around Bodmin Moor’s area of outstanding natural beauty to stop any potential light pollution that could be caused by future developments.
If successful, Bodmin will join three international dark sky parks in the UK: the Elan Valley Estate in Wales, Galloway Forest Park in Scotland and Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water and Forest Park in England with the recognition similar to that bestowed on World Heritage Sites.
Caradon Observatory have said Bodmin’s night sky has some truly magnificent views with Mike Wilmott, the observatory’s director saying: “If you ever go out and allow yourself 10 minutes for your eyes to become perfectly night adapted, you suddenly realise what an amazing light show there is up there.”
The plan for this recognition is also being supported by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) with Director Anita Grice-Goldsmith saying: “Bodmin Moor is an incredible place and being granted dark sky status would protect its beauty for people and wildlife alike.”
If there is sufficient support from the public, the council will submit their bid in the summer with people and businesses in the surrounding area given advice on how to limit their light pollution.
“No-one would be required to change their lights, it’s simply about encouraging people to turn off unneeded lights… and having lighting that’s fit for purpose” said Cornwall Council’s Edwina Hannaford.
Why not make your own magical night sky moments when on your holidays in Cornwall? Grab a cosy blanket, some nibbles and your loved ones and head up to Bodmin Moor and watch one of nature’s best shows… Keep an eye out for shooting stars as well!
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Photo by: Unsplash
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