Set in the green hills of the United Kingdom, Watership Down was a novel that had worldwide appeal, not only as a good story, but also for the strong message it sent about the impact of development on the wildlife population. Ironically, Sandleford Park in Newbury, which served as inspiration for the author in writing this tale, is now the very place that West Berkshire County Council has chosen for the site of 2000 new homes.

According to local campaigners, this decision will have a devastating impact on the residents of the area, place severe strain on the regional infrastructure, and contribute to a dramatic reduction in wildlife habitat. Those campaigning against this destruction have identified numerous sites on previously developed land that could be re-generated, yet the council is still planning to go ahead with destroying this beautiful park, in spite of local objections, including those of Richard Adams, the 90 year old author of Watership Down.

Sign this petition to urge the council to protect this area and keep it as a haven for wildlife.

More information:

An appeal from Richard Adams - http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/hands-off-our-land/8962223/Hands-Off-Our-Land-A-wound-in-the-loveliest-of-places.html

The website for the Say No To Sandleford Campaign - http://www.saynotosandleford.org.uk/