The Wammy, located at Lower Milehouse Lane, is a cherished green space that serves as a lifeline for the community. It is a place where local residents, families, walkers, children, and dog owners gather daily to connect with nature and each other. In an era where urban development continues to encroach on our natural spaces, The Wammy stands as one of the few accessible open areas where community wellbeing, recreation, and social bonding flourish.

However, this pivotal role of The Wammy is now under threat. We are deeply concerned about the current proposal (Application Ref: 25/00971/DEEM3) which plans to instal 4-metre-high netting along with a 2-metre perimeter fencing around sections of The Wammy. If approved, this will significantly alter the landscape and accessibility of this vital community resource. Such modifications not only hinder the free movement and enjoyment that the current open space permits but also impede the crucial social interactions that it facilitates.

The proposed fencing would restrict access to a significant part of The Wammy, transforming our open haven into a restricted zone. This would adversely affect not only the aesthetic value but also the community's engagement with the space. Consider the impact on children who play freely, dog owners who relish walking their pets, and families who enjoy picnics on weekends. Blocking access creates an artificial barrier that disconnects us from nature and each other.

We acknowledge the potential reasons behind the proposal, which might include concerns for safety or designated sports areas. However, alternative solutions such as community-led supervision, improved lighting, or even scheduled usage times can address these concerns without resorting to fencing. Collaborative discussions with stakeholders, including local residents and community groups, must be prioritized to find compromises that preserve The Wammy's open nature while addressing the proposal's concerns.

We call on the local authorities and decision-makers to reconsider and reject this proposal. Our community space is an invaluable asset that must remain open and accessible for all members of the community. Let us protect the essence of The Wammy for current and future generations. Please sign this petition to help keep The Wammy free, open, and thriving.

Why we are objecting

🔹 Lack of meaningful consultation

Many residents only became aware of this proposal after a small number of households were notified. A change of this scale to a shared public space should involve full and transparent community consultation before plans are progressed.

🔹 Loss of open access to a public space

Fencing and gated access would fundamentally change the character of The Wammy and restrict free public use of an area that has always been open and inclusive.

🔹 Disproportionate response to isolated issues

Concerns such as occasional motorbike use or irresponsible dog ownership should be addressed through targeted enforcement and education — not by enclosing and restricting the entire space for everyone.

🔹 Impact on wellbeing and community use

The Wammy is used for walking, informal play, exercise, dog walking, picnics, and social interaction. Enclosing it with high fencing and netting would make it feel less safe, less welcoming, and less accessible.

🔹 Visual and environmental harm

Large-scale fencing and netting would significantly alter the appearance of the area and detract from the open, green nature of the space.

What we are asking for

We call on Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council to:

✔ Pause and reconsider this proposal

✔ Engage in proper, inclusive consultation with the wider community

✔ Explore alternative solutions that address specific concerns without restricting access for all

✔ Protect The Wammy as a shared, open public space for current and future residents

This petition reflects the strong local feeling that The Wammy should remain open, accessible, and welcoming to everyone, not enclosed or restricted due to issues that can be managed in other ways.

Please listen to the community before making irreversible changes to a valued local space.