I was raised in Barton and thirty years ago we enjoyed the privilege of access to large playing fields from Bernwood and Barton Village first schools. These fields served as places for us to play, interact, and connect with members of our community. When development began in Barton West, access to the other playing fields started to diminish. What has been left is a space without a public playing area available.

Regrettably, the public grass recreational playing field at Bushey Leys Close on Barton Estate, which once was a refuge of joy and leisure for local residents, is no longer maintained to the standards that other local estates enjoy. The neglect by Oxford City Council's Parks Department undermines the spirit and resilience of our community; it secludes us, denying us the basic care and funding that is extended to other neighbouring estates.

Our children should have the same right to play safely and freely on their local fields just as we once did. The current state has deprived our children of this fundamental right, disrupting their physical and social development. Is it not essential for every child to have a safe and clean environment to play and learn?

Therefore, we are urging the Oxford City Council's Parks Department to restore and maintain the public's grass recreational playing field at Bushey Leys Close. The restoration should match at least the same standards as other local estates' playing fields. Our children, our community, deserve equal treatment.

Please, sign this petition to advocate for the restoration and maintenance of our local playing field. Let's strive for a Barton where everyone is treated equitably, and our children have a safe environment to grow and play.