It’s a little-known fact that a vast amount of the South Hampshire countryside is completely unprotected. As the Solent towns and cities rapidly grow outwards, our most valued green spaces could soon be gone forever.

We love the rolling landscapes, the wildlife, and the quiet tranquillity offered by the nature on our doorsteps, but it is at risk. We need to act soon to put in place a mechanism of protection for the last of our countryside gaps and green spaces. 

Our Local Authorities plan where development will happen through Local Development Plans. These Local Plans set out which areas of countryside need protecting and can contain policies that protect them in law.

Housing is a serious issue - there's no doubt we need to build more homes for our younger generations. We can still meet our housing needs and maintain our quality of life while keeping the areas between our communities green.  

The Leaders of Eastleigh, Fareham, Test Valley and Winchester Councils preside over our most vulnerable countryside. Our South Hampshire Councillors can help keep South Hampshire green by including new Green Belt policy in their Local Plans.  

The great thing about Green Belt is that it stops cities sprawling out and encourages the regeneration of urban areas. This places our homes next to our jobs and the amenities we need. It helps our Local Authorities to really think about where new homes should be built, about where development makes most sense.

If you love walking along the Itchen River in Eastleigh, exploring the woodland at Bishopstoke or have fond memories of spending family time in the Forest of Bere, then sign our petition to show that you think South Hampshire should remain green.

For thriving communities surrounded by beautiful countryside for everyone to enjoy, let’s encourage our Local Authorities to think radically and plan a bright future for South Hampshire.

Petition Text

Dear Cllr Woodward, Cllr House, Cllr Thompson & Cllr North,

A consequence of the growth of the South Hampshire Sub Region is a need for more housing, which in recent years has significantly encroached into the surrounding countryside.  Designation of a Green Belt around the urban area (as part of a strategic vision for Hampshire) would limit further encroachment, prevent the coalescence of settlements, and prompt a greater contribution to new housing from regeneration of the urban area.

Please work together to plan for growth in South Hampshire and protect our most valued green spaces by introducing new Green Belt policy in your Local Plans.