Tireless activists want to prevent more fields in Sheffield from being turned into housing estates UK News

Councilors refused permission for Avant Homes to build 71 properties on Owlthorpe Fields in Moorthorpe Way, Crystal Peaks, but they were canceled by a planning inspector.

Known as Site E, it is one of three for development. Activists have now turned their attention to two neighboring fields in an attempt to save them.

In a silent protest, ribbons and designs were attached to metal fences erected around the Avant Homes site.

The Owlthorpe Fields action group says it understands the anger and resentment being felt in the community, but will work tirelessly to save Sites C and D.

The group is now liaising with MP for Clive Betts, advisers, planning officers, Professor Ian Rotherham and Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust on how it can protect other sites.

Christine Rippon, of the group, said: “Councilors voted an overwhelming majority to reject the project last year and reluctantly we accepted permission to be granted by the planning inspector in March. to allow construction on Site E of Owlthorpe Fields.

“It has been and remains a difficult time for our community. The erection of fences saddened and angered many local residents.

“Since authorization was granted, the group has focused its efforts on safeguarding two other areas of Owlthorpe Fields that remain unsold, Sites C and D.

“We are trying to protect them, as well as the Old Bois d’Ocre Dyke, during the excavation and development of Site E, which is due to start in September.

“In the longer term, our objective is to preserve sites C and D from further development. We believe they should be designated local wildlife sites and they should join the wildlife corridor that is being established in Waterthorpe, Beighton and Woodhouse Washlands.

Ms Rippon said the group wanted to thank everyone for the positive discussions.

“The declaration of natural emergency adopted by Sheffield Council has given us great hope that the issues of climate change and biodiversity loss will be addressed with passion and vigor. “