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Writer's pictureHanham Green Belt

Preserving the Heart of Nature: A Plea Against Development in Green Infrastructure Corridor F


A field with stone wall in foreground and woodland in the background

In the lush embrace of South Gloucestershire, a hidden gem thrives – Green Infrastructure Corridor F, a vital thread in the intricate tapestry of nine Strategic Green Infrastructure Corridors meticulously designated by South Gloucestershire Council. This particular corridor, meandering along the south-west facing valley side of the River Avon, south of Hanham, holds the key to preserving the very essence of our natural heritage.


Green Infrastructure Corridor F is not merely a stretch of land; it's a sanctuary for extensive areas of ancient woodlands and grasslands, fostering a delicate balance of ecosystems that support a myriad of life. The diverse array of invertebrates, birds and mammals that call this corridor home rely on its undisturbed tranquility. Moreover, the corridor serves as a vital migration route for waterbirds, adding another layer to its ecological significance.


The corridor is a testament to the foresight of the South Gloucestershire Council, recognising the intrinsic value it holds for both nature and people. Beyond its ecological importance, Corridor F is a haven for recreational activities such as walking, cycling, and birdwatching. Its contribution to improving air quality and reducing the risk of flooding is an added bonus that directly benefits the surrounding communities.


The commitment of the council to safeguard Green Infrastructure Corridor F is evident in the Local Plan 2020 (Phase 2), which explicitly protects the corridor from any inappropriate development. This protective shield ensures that new developments will not be permitted within the corridor unless they can unequivocally prove they won't harm its ecological or recreational value.


But now, the very heart of Corridor F faces a threat – the looming spectre of development. South Gloucestershire Council has earmarked three sites for the construction of 270 houses on Green Belt land within Corridor F. This move not only contradicts the council's commitment to protect the corridor but poses a grave risk to the delicate balance of nature it nurtures.


The council's investment in the management and enhancement of the corridor, with initiatives like creating new paths, planting trees, and removing invasive species, underscores the recognition of Corridor F as a priceless asset. To sacrifice this haven for short-term gains is to undermine the very principles that guide responsible environmental stewardship.


Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society urges South Gloucestershire Council to reconsider its preferred strategy to allow development within Green Infrastructure Corridor F. The corridor is not merely a piece of land; it is a living, breathing entity that sustains life and connects communities. Its preservation is a testament to our commitment to fostering biodiversity, ensuring the well-being of our communities, and leaving a legacy of sustainable coexistence between nature and human development.


Let us stand together to protect Green Infrastructure Corridor F – an irreplaceable treasure that enriches our lives and ensures a harmonious future for generations to come.


Make your views known to South Gloucestershire Council before 7th February 2024 - Visit https://www.hanhamgreenbelt.com/how-to-object-to-sgc-s-new-local-plan



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