Sir Patrick Moore backs protesters

Oct 9 2008 by Mark Smith, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

THE campaign to stop 300 new homes being built on Green Belt land in Widnes has won the backing of legendary astronomer Sir Patrick Moore.

The 85-year-old broadcaster was speaking after Liverpool Astronomical Society said it would object to any plans by Mill Properties to build a 30-acre estate and golf course close to its Leighton Observatory on Pex Hill.

The society – which was formed in 1881 and is the oldest astronomical group in Britain – has operated the Widnes facility since its opening by Sir Patrick in March, 1994.

The site currently houses a 12in Meade telescope and is the society’s last remaining observatory.

But the group fears light pollution from any new development could cripple its educational and scientific programmes – leading to the site’s eventual closure.

Sir Patrick told the Weekly News: “Unfortunately this kind of thing has been happening more and more up and down the country.

“I remember the Leighton Observatory well and it’s very important to that local area.

“I would be against anything that encroaches on the work of the observatory and I wish them all the success in their campaign.”

Gerard Gilligan, a Liverpool Astronomical Society spokesman, said: “We’re extremely concerned about light pollution from this proposed development as it will not let people see the night sky the way it was meant to be seen.

“Last year we had 1,200 visitors including schools, colleges, Scouts and other astronomical societies from around the UK.

“We’ve invested £15,000 and a lot of our own time into it, but fear it could be forced to close if this development goes ahead.”

A spokesman for Mill Properties, said: “Light pollution and dark skies compliance requirements will be among the matters considered by Halton Borough Council as part of the planning process.

“However, we’d be happy to meet with the society and Sir Patrick Moore, if he wishes, to discuss our proposals.”