I am a geographer by education and a champion for preservation by passion, and it is this passion that fuels my opposition against the recent planning permission application on Lady's Mile, Kingshill Road, HP13—the proposed gypsy traveller site.

Being a long-standing neighbour of the affected area, I have come to deeply appreciate, respect and advocate for the unique biodiversity and air quality this green belt offers. To risk this precious area is tantamount to undermining both our environment and our collective quality of life.

Green belts serve a critical function in preserving our environment. They harbour invaluable wildlife diversity, provide clean air through carbon dwelling, and serve as natural flood defences. Interestingly, according to the Office for National Statistics, approximately 722 square miles of England’s Green Belt land had been converted to 'developed use' between 2017 and 2020.

This proposed development blatantly disregards the priceless worth of preserving these green belts for future generations and for the planet at large. Indeed, it isn't just about us, the neighbours. Enabling such a project to proceed is a disservice to the wider community, to our future generations and to the very essence of sustainable development.

Together, we can protect our environmental legacy. It’s time we stood up for green belts like Lady's Mile, Kingshill Road, HP13 and the unique biodiversity they host. So, I implore you to reject this planning application that threatens our precious green belt. Sign the petition to preserve our local environment.