'Green spaces are crucial': MP backs efforts to protect Oundle field
Supporters of Fletton Field have been praised for tree planting and community events
East Northamptonshire MP Lee Barron has backed efforts to protect Fletton Field in Oundle, praising local volunteers and highlighting the importance of green spaces for both communities and wildlife.
His comments come as supporters of the site continue work to enhance the area, including planting apple trees and organising community events aimed at securing its future.
Fletton Field is a publicly accessible green space managed by Oundle Town Council in partnership with the Fletton Field Association (FFA). The site is a key community resource and forms part of an important wildlife corridor running across Oundle.
Speaking about the future of green spaces, Mr Barron said they play a vital role in local communities and should be protected wherever possible.
"Green spaces are crucial," he said.
"There's always a lot of toing and froing in relation to development and things like that. There needs to be an approach based on common sense so that people feel as though there's development with consent.
"What we've got to do is protect those public green spaces that we can and make sure they're not part of any development plans."
Mr Barron said local authorities should ensure protections for green spaces are reflected in planning policies.
"We need to make sure that's reflected in all of the local plans for local authorities and town councils and parish councils in order to try and do our best to protect those spaces," he said.
He also stressed the importance of public support, saying communities have a significant role to play in helping safeguard sites such as Fletton Field.
"The public most definitely play a part," he said.
"It's bringing the community to it and making sure the community know those spaces exist. I think that's really important."
The MP said he was encouraged by the efforts of campaigners and volunteers already working to protect the field and remains confident about its future.
"I'm confident that it can be with the people that are there supporting it at the moment and the various volunteers," he said.
"I'm with the town council and I'll do everything I can to assist them in protecting that area."