One project which is part of our conservation and environmental portfolio which has attracted much coverage is the Dark Skies accreditation.

There is real potential for Gwynedd and Anglesey as astro-tourism destinations according to the experts – and a chance to extend the holiday season as a result. With Snowdonia National Park already having ‘Dark Sky’ status and Anglesey and the Llŷn Peninsula also recognised, work has been ongoing to attract more visitors who are astronomy enthusiasts to the area.

At a time when there is increased interest in the environment and climate, Arloesi Gwynedd Wledig and Arloesi Môn were looking to maximise opportunities when they launched a pilot project to help the sector understand the potential of attracting more visitors, especially during off-peak periods. Snowdonia is one of only eleven areas across the world which has received international status for starry nights, with only one other in Wales – the Brecon Beacons.

Around twenty-five businesses across Anglesey and Gwynedd worked together as part of the pilot to see how to make the most of the Dark Sky status. A series of workshops on astro-tourism were held and specialist equipment such as telescopes and astronomy charts were made available for businesses to lend to their guests and visitors.

Another linked activity was the art project to create a Solar System within the boundaries of the National Park. Working with a local artist, the planets were installed in cafes, restaurants and shops across the Park – with the sun itself in Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Dark Skies has now appointed a full- time officer to work in Anglesey and Snowdonia, which is a direct result of the LEADER investment.