Ukraine, cycle paths and the night sky
This week, the world reflects on a whole 12 months of conflict in Ukraine. With his full-scale invasion of Ukraine the Russian President undermined the global rules-based system which facilitated the longest period of sustained peace and prosperity in the Western hemisphere for generations.
His actions imperilled not just the people of Ukraine, but the entire world, threatening our longterm stability.
That is why I applaud the UK’s commitment of £2.3 billion in military aid and its training of 10,000 Ukrainian troops.
Whilst the future the conflict is uncertain, our resolve is clear: Putin must fail.
Here in West Sussex, I was delighted to join residents and councillors from West Sussex County Council in the opening of a new cycle path in Findon.
This cycle path was part of a £1.2 million investment from the Government.
The benefits of this new link between Findon village and Findon valley to the south are clear, and it is good news for residents that its construction is part of a wider scheme of cycling investment ongoing across West Sussex which in time I want to see include a cycle path from Arundel to Ford.
Many of us often take the opportunity to look up at night and admire the beauty of the night sky.
That starry skyscape, which became the world’s latest International
Dark Sky Reserve above much of West Sussex in 2016, is celebrated each year during the South Downs Dark Skies Festival.
I joined participants near Bignor during a guided tour led by Richard and Kirstie Betts from WestSussex-based Pied A Terre Adventures during the festival.
Whilst thick fog prohibited twinkling skies on that night, I do fully appreciate the importance of protecting our dark skies and I have campaigned for better lighting regulations, and against the unsustainable development which threatens this coveted skygazing opportunity.