BISHOPSWORTH RESIDENTS FIGHT MOVES TO AXE

LOCAL WILDLIFE HAVEN!

Residents in Bishopsworth are up-in-arms over a proposal to develop land which has become a valued wildlife haven near their homes.

Local people are strenuously opposed to the planned disposal by Bristol City Council of the site which lies off Coldpark Gardens.

The 'triangular' green space is bordered by properties on Coldpark Road, Highridge Road and Four Acres. Many living in these households were alarmed on learning of its possible sale early next year.

As a result, a 65-named petition has been raised opposing the move and countless letters of objection sent to Officers who manage this Neighbourhoods open space.

One of the organisers of this petition, Clare Costigan said: "this parcel of land is immensely important to local people and especially to those of us whose properties back onto it.

"It provides us with a huge degree of privacy, a feeling of space and is very close proximity to an area where wildlife can flourish.

"It is a wonderful spot and I am sure no-one around here is in favour of it being sold off."

Local Tory Councillor Richard Eddy, is backing the residents in their campaign and believes this important wildlife oasis should be preserved by the Council at all costs.

Cllr Richard Eddy said: "Cllr Kevin Quartley and myself have been contacted by many local people anxious about the potential loss of this important open space.

"Although this part of my Ward is relatively well served by such sites, I believe the sacrifice of this particular piece of land would do incalculable harm to resident wildlife and the quality of life of the local community.

"In particular, the area is only accessible from narrow lanes running from Coldpark Gardens and Four Acres.

"As a result, I very much doubt whether any developer could proceed without substantial and on-going investment in the site.

"I must really question whether there would be any worthwhile return from the cost of acquiring this land in the first place."

Back to Local News Index 22nd December 2011