Councillors address 5,685-strong petition to save Eastward Ho playing fields and Grove Woodlands, in Felixstowe
Councillors have addressed a 5,685-strong petition to save playing fields from being redeveloped into homes.
The petition was discussed by East Suffolk councillors during the authority’s full council meeting on Wednesday.
Monika Boast, who created the petition, introduced the community’s plea to save the Eastward Ho outdoor playing fields and the Grove Woodlands from being developed into 125 new homes.
She said: “These community-cherished open green fields, which also protect our beloved woodland, our physical and mental health retreat must saved.
“We know nothing has been decided and there is nothing to appeal against yet but this is why it is so important to talk about it now.”
The area is part of the council’s 2,000-home North Felixstowe Garden Neighbourhood project stretching from the seaside town to Trimley St Mary.
The council is currently leading the master-planning process ahead of developing an outline planning application by the end of this year or early 2025.
Ms Boast added: “Do not build on or reposition this land and facilities, do not change or take away what we love and what we have used for decades and generations.
“We want these lands formally and legally protected, maintained and enhanced in its current size and form for us and future generations.”
Addressing these concerns, Cllr David Beavan, who is responsible for housing, said the council’s masterplan would be fair and compromise all the needs, including the environment, housing, and leisure.
He added: “We know how cynical people are about “consultations” – that they are only a PR exercise after decisions have been made behind closed doors. It is part of the current, general distrust of politicians.
“We are transparent. We are honestly engaging with you. Our doors and minds are open. We are listening.
“We’re just trying to find the best for Felixstowe and that’s where we’ll get to in the end, so bear with us, we’ll get there.”
The 2,000 new homes are expected to increase the population by about 10,000 people and are set to be built over a 20 to 30-year period.
Along with the new homes, the project also includes a new £25 million leisure centre, a primary school, and a community hub.
Cllr Seamus Bennett, who was the previous Mayor of Felixstowe, said: “I really want to assure my fellow Felixstowe, here and elsewhere, that the consultation process under way, including tonight’s debate, is a genuine one, it’s not a done deal and all arguments are and will be listened to and taken onboard.”
