Unbelievably, we are back to square one with Werrington Fields. The Council are about to submit a planning application to erect a fence around the ENTIRE open space.
No one wants to see Ken Stimpson pupils not playing sport - but an enormous fence would effectively block residents accessing the open space.
When this issue reared its head a few years ago - a massive public campaign forced a rethink. A compromise was reached - a smaller area would be fenced ensuring the school could address safeguarding concerns and the public could still enjoy the open space. Most accepted the compromise.
The Council then went to the Department of Education for the plan to be rubber stamped - but it was rejected. The Council have just accepted this, and will now apply to fence off the ENTIRE fields.
The idea the Council would meekly accept an initial judgement of an official in Whitehall who has never been to Peterborough - overriding a compromise most were happy with, is of course wrong.
The Council could work with me - not erect the fence - and press for the original compromise that is best for everyone.
But some good news. This is not a decision made by councillors in other parts of Peterborough. Werrington councillor John Fox sits on the Council Cabinet - and can stop the planning application that would lead to the fence. A Werrington councillor with a bit of power!
So here is my open offer. I have worked with John in the past - we can do this again. Let’s work together and SAVE WERRINGTON FIELDS.
