Wales becomes first UK nation to launch national dark skies guidance

Wales will this week become the first UK nation to introduce national good practice guidance aimed at protecting its dark skies.

The Good Practice Guidance: Planning for the Conservation and Enhancement of Dark Skies will help safeguard people’s well-being while supporting both stargazers and wildlife for generations to come.

Endorsed by the CEO and Executive Director of DarkSky International, the guidance is designed to assist developers, local authorities, and other planning decision-makers in using the right light at the right time in the right place.

The aim is to prevent light pollution, ensuring continued opportunities for stargazing while also reducing wasted energy, carbon emissions, and costs.

Wales is already known for having the highest percentage of protected dark skies in the world. From Bannau Brycheiniog to Eryri, its internationally recognised Dark Sky Reserves allow visitors to see up to 2,000 stars at a time—compared to fewer than 100 in most urban areas.

designations, including Dark Sky Parks, Dark Sky Sanctuaries, and Dark Sky Communities, highlight Wales’ commitment to preserving its night skies.

Ruskin Hartley, CEO and Executive Director of DarkSky International, welcomed the initiative, saying:

“DarkSky International congratulates Wales on its leadership in dark sky conservation, celebrating a Decade of Darkness with Eryri National Park’s 10th anniversary as an International Dark Sky Reserve and the launch of groundbreaking Good Practice Guidance to further protect its world-class night skies.”

The guidance, developed in partnership with the Welsh Government, local authorities, Wales’ Designated Landscapes, and Natural Resources Wales, launches ahead of Wales’ Dark Skies Week, beginning Friday 21 February, when people across the country will turn their eyes to the winter constellations.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said:

“The night sky is one of our most precious natural treasures, connecting us to countless generations who gazed at the same stars above Wales, and I want to ensure it’s preserved for future generations to discover and cherish.

“Our planning system plays a fundamental role in protecting our celestial heritage, not just for stargazers, but for the countless species that depend on natural darkness for their survival.

“I’m proud that Wales is leading the way by launching this Planning Good Practice Guidance, which will help us all advocate for – and protect – our dark skies.”