Council welcomes Wraysbury Green Belt decision

Extra planning measures introduced by the Royal Borough to help maintain the rural character of two Green Belt sites in Wraysbury have been confirmed by the Secretary of State.

In September last year, cabinet agreed to impose measures that meant anyone wanting to erect a fence or wall on a plot in Coppice Field or Thamesfield would have to apply to the council for planning permission. Fences and walls already constructed were not affected.

However in order to be deemed permanent the measures had to be confirmed by the Secretary of State - and this confirmation was received by the council yesterday (Thursday 4 March).

Coppice Field and Thamesfield - popular walking areas covered in long grass and with some trees - had been marketed for sale locally and overseas in 200m2 plots.

While a few Wraysbury residents purchased plots - in particular owners of properties adjoining the fields - almost 300 campaigned to maintain the open, undeveloped character, and submitted a petition to the council requesting a restriction of development on the fields.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for planning, development and property, said: "The council believes in fighting to protect Green Belt land in the borough and this confirmation vindicates the step we took to help ensure these beautiful fields can be enjoyed by residents for years to come.

"This move does not prevent the building of fences or walls but rather means that permission will be required from the council. We will look at and consider each application on its merits and refuse any that we think will be detrimental to the area's rural character."

Letters will now be sent to landowners advising them of the confirmation.

Ongoing claims for established Public Rights of Way and Village Green status are being considered separately under their respective legal processes.

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