Cabinet approves proposals for new green space at Stoke Park Farm
Eastleigh Borough Council’s Cabinet has approved proposals for the next stage of the creation of a new 103 hectares of green space on existing farmland at Stoke Park Farm, Bishopstoke to guarantee its long-term protection from development.
A recent consultation gave local residents the opportunity to help determine the future uses of the land. Cabinet has now approved proposals that will see the land used for a variety of initiatives to enhance the environment by changing the land from conventional agricultural that not only helps to reduce the amount of nutrients that end up in our rivers and the Solent but also increases the biodiversity of the area.
The proposals, that will be subject to planning permission, will include a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) that will provide land for local residents to enjoy. By investing in a SANG within the Borough, the Council is encouraging residents to travel shorter distances and therefore reducing pollution.
The proposals also include additional amenities with a focus on not displacing or disturbing wildlife together with management of the land to promote, protect, restore and enhance the natural environment. They would also be the creation of habitat to benefit plants and animals such as great-crested newts, a protected species, working with the Newt Conservation Partnership.
Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, said: “This is a long-term commitment for the Council and our long-term ownership and protection of this land from development means we can work towards a more sustainable future for our local community.”
He added, “Taking this land out of farming helps us to not only protect our rivers and coastal areas but also create a new site for local people and create improved habitats for wildlife to enjoy.”
The Council will now further explore a range of opportunities for additional environmental and community benefits.