Long revered by residents and visitors alike, areas affording views of Sidmouth’s ‘breathtaking’ night skies have now been granted official recognition.
An application submitted by East Devon District Council (EDDC) for Knapp Copse and Trinity Hill nature reserves to be awarded Dark Sky Discovery Site status has been accepted.
Both sites are now recognised as great places to look at the night sky – meeting the criteria of being away from the worst of any local light pollution, providing good sightlines and offering easy public access.
David Strange, from the Norman Lockyer Observatory, said: “The observatory welcomes all efforts to preserve our dark skies in the locality, and to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the majestic sight of our Milky Way galaxy arching over our heads.”
Councillor Iain Chubb, the district council’s portfolio holder for the environment, said: “This is a fantastic recognition for two of our slightly more remote sites. “Local nature reserves, like Trinity Hill and Knapp Copse, aren’t just great spots for a walk with the family, or to see some wildlife, they are also places to take in the most breathtaking view of all – the night sky.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here