Residents move to save field site (From Stroud News and Journal)

Residents move to save field site

A RACE against the clock is on to save Cope Chat Sports Field from developers.

Cainscross and Dudbridge residents have joined forces in a last ditch attempt to keep the field free from development. Land Agent Bruton Knowles is set to agree a deal with developers in six weeks time.

Greg Wilkinson, land and development manager from Bruton Knowles confirmed to the SNJ on Monday that bids had been placed but refused to disclose the identity of the bidders.

"We have received various bids and are in the process of making a decision. We should have a clearer indication in a month's time," he said.

The former rugby and cricket pitch near Sainsburys has been unused for 13 years but residents do not want housing on the site. They say they are fighting to preserve one of last pieces of unspoilt green space in the Five Valleys.

Graham Stanley who is leading the residents campaign said: "It looks as if a property developer has come up with the highest bid but we are looking at all avenues to stop this.

"We believe the field has a covenant to retain it as a green site," said Mr Stanley.

Mr Stanley, from Frome Gardens is now in the process of forming a residents Trust after his offer was rejected last week.

The Trust would see residents able to purchase shares with any member free to sell their shares back to the Trust at anytime.

"We would like to turn the site into a recreational site, possibly a sports field with a children's play park and I urge anyone to come forward to help in any way they can as we are desperate not to see this site taken up by housing," said Mr Stanley.

He can be contacted on 01453 766882.