Leckhampton fields under new threat - press release 5th November 2010

Leckhampton Fields latest - Campaigners on Red Alert

Campaigners are considering their response to draft proposals for the development of a mini ‘New Town’ on Leckhampton fields. 1,300 houses, commercial development and a neighbourhood centre are being proposed to be built on fields currently used for agriculture, horticultural businesses, and for informal leisure.

Opponents of the wide scale development of Leckhampton fields are concerned the proposals are premature. They say the planning process is still in limbo following the abolition of the Regional Spatial Strategy as local councils decide what new housing and employment opportunities are needed and where they should go.

Councillor Klara Sudbury (All Saints, Lib Dem) who is a County Councillor for Leckhampton Ward said “There was huge opposition to the housing numbers proposed in the Regional Spatial Strategy. It is disappointing that developers in this case seem wedded to these unwanted housing numbers; local people have already strongly opposed them through the Regional Spatial Strategy process but they are ignoring that.

Klara added “Local people very much value the semi-rural character of this part of Leckhampton as is seen by the growing membership of the Leckhampton Green Land Action Group (LEGLAG). I am concerned that what is proposed amounts to a mini New Town in Leckhampton which could have far reaching consequences for the whole Leckhampton community. I am sure people will not only be concerned about the loss of the green fields but want to have a say on the impact on the character of the area, traffic, demand for school places and their quality of life.”

Planning Spokesman for LEGLAG, Gerry Potter added “We are facing a crucial time in the campaign to protect Leckhampton fields for future generations to enjoy. Ideally LEGLAG would like the area to become the first of its kind; a Site of Special Community Interest or Value (SSCI or SSCV) something which is contained in the Coalition Govt policy. The eventual aim would be a Country Park which LEGLAG has been campaigning on since August. We have received excellent support from Leckhampton residents and the wider community and we are looking to hand in our petition to the council soon. It is important that we get the council to consider a designation to help protect the fields from inappropriate development. We want local people to be aware that there are already draft plans being put forward to develop the fields here for housing and commercial use and to get involved with any consultation; we must get our views heard.”