Cranham Green Belt Land Bought for the Community
29 acres of Green Belt land to the right of Moor Lane and below A127
A large piece of Green Belt land in Cranham has been acquired by the Council to provide an informal recreational open space while providing additional protection from any potential development.
The substantial plot of land spans some 29 acres (11.7 hectares) and is flanked by Moor Lane (behind the Moor Lane CoE Church) and the A127 to the North (see picture).
Back in 2010 there was a planning application to build a large Retirement Village on the land, but this was turned down by the Council following opposition from local residents and the Upminster & Cranham Residents’ Association. A subsequent appeal also upheld the rejection.
It’s very good news for the community that this land will be retained as Green Belt. Plans to open up the existing footpath to give public access to the natural environment and abundant wildlife is also most welcome. At a time of ever creeping development, our Green Belt land is very precious and we are fully committed to protecting it.
Excellent news! I just want to express the hope that the biodiversity there will be protected. This means, I believe, not too much grass cutting, not necessarily removing shrubs or trees, and looking after the soil.
On behalf of Havering Friends of the Earth.
Yes, we are aiming to set up a Friends Group which will help look after the area…will keep you posted
So pleased that this land has been bought. I did complain about footpaths not being accessible, overgrown etc.
Will the area hopefully be wheelchair, mobility scooter and push chair friendly.
What about the footpaths leading from Kerry Drive into Severn Drive and along back of Heron Way.
The Heron Way entrance into Brickfields is so or was so overgrown inaccessible.
THis is supposed to be a footpath all can use, and it did need clearing.
Yes, it’s early days but I’m sure inclusive accessibility will be part of the ongoing plans. The entrance to the field in Heron Way is a bit trickier as it is not owned by the Council. Tracking down the owners is not as straightforward as it sounds – and we have tried on several occasions. Nonetheless, we have arranged for this to be cut back before and will have another look at it to see what we can do.