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9 Dec 2013

Gold standard for Northumberland’s starry skies

It is one of the best places in the UK to see the Milky Way. And now, part of Northumberland’s countryside is to be awarded dark sky park status, and will become the largest in Europe.

It is one of the best places in the UK to see the Milky Way. And now a large area of Northumberland's countryside is to be awarded dark sky park status - the largest in Europe. (G)

The official recognition for the skies in this remote corner of England could see stargazers flocking to the area from around the world.

The new zone – called the Northumberland international dark sky park – will take in the combined areas of Northumberland National Park and Kielder water and forest park, between Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish border

It is the first of its kind in England and one of the largest in the world, joining the likes of death valley and big bend dark sky parks in the United States.

The gold tier designation is the highest accolade that the US-based international dark skies association (IDA) can bestow. And it means that the spread of light pollution will be halted, as people will be encouraged to fit more sophisticated outdoor lighting to homes.

This move will reclaim the night and protect this rich legacy for future generations – Councillor John Riddle

The bid for protected status has taken two years, and has been spearheaded by Northumberland National Park authority, Kielder water and forest park development trust and Kielder observatory astronomical society.

“We have worked so hard together to reach this tremendous day for everyone committed to securing protection for England’s largest area of starry skies,” a statement from Kielder water and forest park development trust read. The bid for dark sky status was two years in the making.

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Councillor John Riddle, chairman of Northumberland National Park authority, said: “Creation of the Northumberland dark sky park is recognition that our national parks and protected rural areas are defined by their skyscape as well as their landscape.

“Starry nights, tranquil villages, rolling hills and forests are all part of the Northumberland experience that visitors love.

“This move will reclaim the night and protect this rich legacy for future generations.”