We, the concerned residents of Purbrook, Waterlooville, urge you to join us in protecting our precious green space from potentially being sold off by Crookhorn School to property developers.

The green space is the open field just off of Scratchface Lane (next to Riverside Special School). 

You may have seen the ugly metal fence that has been put up around the perimeter of the field. This eye sore is at an immense cost to Crookhorn School, as it is rented and checked by the company who owns it regularly. Crookhorn School state that any money they make from selling the field, will be put back in to the school... why waste money on the metal fence in the first place? Surely these funds could be put into the School first?

Crookhorn School have stated the open field is a "security risk" which is why the fence has been placed. The field has never posed a security risk, and is utilised by the community for multiple purposes and has been this way for many years. It is felt Crookhorn School are hiding behind calling it a security risk, when actually they want to call the field "disused land" therefore more attractive to sell to potentially property developers. I have argued that local residents and the community may not have known the field was private and belonged to Crookhorn School, as there has never been any signage or clear information informing of this, until now. Therefore of course the local community will utilise the beautiful green space, as there is nothing else in the local area. 

The field is vital for outdoor recreation for local residents, school and college students alike. We must act now to preserve this natural haven and safeguard the woodland border and majestic oak trees that grace its vicinity. Both of which have Tree and Woodland Protection Orders already placed to try and deter any developers. 

The field area, by comparison to other areas, is very small, almost too small for a new housing development. Therefore it feels all the more pointless to fence it off and try to build on it, when it could continue to be utilised by local residents and the community for much needed (and ever-decreasing) outdoor green space. 

We call upon the local authorities, including Purbrook Council, Havant Borough Council and Crookhorn School (the self-proclaimed community orientated school), to recognize the immense value of this green space and take immediate action to protect the field from being sold to property developers. We propose that alternative solutions be explored, such as designating the area as a protected nature reserve or working with local organizations to secure funding for its maintenance.

Let us come together as a united community and ensure that future generations can continue enjoying the benefits of this cherished green space. Sign this petition today and make your voice heard – let's preserve our natural heritage in Purbrook!

Sources:
- National Recreation and Park Association: "The Benefits of Green Space: A Literature Review" (2019)
- The Woodland Trust: "Why Trees are Important" (2021)
- Natural England: "Access to Nature for Health & Well-being" (2016)