Pictured: Keith Rawson, 76, a resident of Burton Joyce.

Nottingham campaigners are calling for action against the council’s new housing estates that are destroying fields and wildlife.

Residents of areas such as Bestwood Park, Burton Joyce and areas of Gedling say they are losing their green spaces due to the Council’s decision to increase the housing market. 

Groundwork Nottingham is a charity invested in saving Nottingham’s environment and works closely with the Nottingham City Council to produce areas that benefit the Nottingham landscape. 

“Local authorities need to think creatively about ways to embed green infrastructure into programmed of regeneration and development, bringing nature closer to people’s daily lives.” said Groundwork.

But residents can do more to protect these areas within their local communities. 

Matthew Thomas, lead for marketing and communications for Groundwork said: “I’d say they make their voices heard with local authorities- whether that’s with MPs or local councillors, even with fellow residents. Ultimately, the main point is not to stay silent about it.” 

“We need houses that the youth of today can afford.”– Keith Rawson, 76.

“People should make an effort to go and spend time in green spaces as it is worth it for your health. It may take up time, but it will be worth it.” Matthew said.

However, not everyone is pleased with the Council’s decision. Residents of Burton Joyce have complained that their village feels more like a continuation of the City Centre, with more and more housing estates joining multiple counties together. 

Keith Rawson, 76, has been a resident of Burton Joyce for over 20 years and said: “I’m very concerned about how the green spaces in Burton Joyce are being eroded by developments for new houses, which I don’t think they want. We need houses that the youth of today can afford not these big mansions four bedroomed houses they don’t need them at all.” 

Development has begun on the school playing fields next to Southglade Primary School and Nursery on Ridgeway in Top Valley.

Recently, development for a new housing estate is underway on Beckhampton Road in Bestwood Park. The field is used by both local primary schools, Southglade Primary School and Nursery and Robin Hood Primary School. 

Maria Giles, 85, said: “Well, I’ve got no problems with it because I’ve lived here over 60 years. I’ve got grandchildren and I understand, you know there is a shortage of properties for them.” 

In 2021 Nottingham City Homes had built 650 council houses, with over 300 more to be built between 2022 and 2023. 

The City Council state on their website that neighbours receive a letter with the proposing plans and “If any adjoining neighbours raises an objection within the 21-day period,” they will take it into account.