Decision details

The Executive receive a presentation from Kel Finan-Cooke of Watchmoor Residents Forum on a petition submitted concerning Watchmoor Nature Reserve. The petition asked the Council not to approve the development of the green space at Watchmoor Nature Reserve to create a static site for the travelling and gypsy community. It further stated that the area was a well-loved and used area by the local community and was home to many protected species. The petition had been available for signing on the Council’s website between 11 September 2020 and 11 March 2021 and had received 1,292 signatures.

Ms Finan-Cooke noted the decision taken earlier in the meeting (minute 2/E refers) on the Stage 1 investigation into the feasibility of a Gypsy and Traveller site on the Nature Reserve and thanked the Executive for this decision. The Places & Strategy Portfolio Holder agreed to work with the Residents Forum to explore approaches for addressing the protection of green spaces.

Note: It was noted for the record that Councillor Rodney Bates declared that he knew the lead petitioner.