Member of Parliament for Brecon and Radnorshire, Fay Jones MP has raised the Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve during an Adjournment Debate on Dark Skies held by Andrew Griffith MP.
The Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve is the first dark sky reserve in Wales and the fifth in the world. Brecon and Radnorshire has some of the highest quality dark skies in the whole of the UK. On a clear night, from the Brecon Beacons you can see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulae and even meteor showers.
Miss Jones, who is Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Dark Skies, highlighted the policy recommendations made in a recent report published by the APPG. She called for devolved administrations to work with the UK Government and look at these policy recommendations, so that dark skies across all four nations of the UK can be protected and promoted.
The full report by the APPG on Dark Skies can be accessed here and Miss Jones’ contribution to the Adjournment Debate can be watched here.
Commenting on her contribution, Miss Jones said:
“At day and night, the Brecon Beacons is one of the most beautiful corners in the world and I am delighted to have had the opportunity to highlight the spectacular Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve in Parliament.
“The All Party Parliamentary Group for Dark Skies has produced an insightful report with ten key policy recommendations, but we need the devolved administrations across the UK to work with us to protect our dark skies and reduce light pollution.
“Protecting our dark skies benefits the local economy with many businesses being supported by the tourism generated by stargazers and astronomers. There is also significant evidence that cutting light pollution reduces stress on often fragile ecosystems and minimises energy wasted on unnecessary lighting.
“I am looking forward to working with both the APPG on Dark Skies and the Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve in the New Year, so we can all continue to benefit from the beauty of our night skies for generations to come.”
