Give us all a bit of beauty
WISBECH is rightly proud of its most famous daughter - Octavia Hill. Although, perhaps best known as a founding member of the National Trust, one of her original aims was to provide green space for all. Her passion grew from her life s work in providing
WISBECH is rightly proud of its most famous daughter - Octavia Hill.
Although, perhaps best known as a founding member of the National Trust, one of her original aims was to provide green space for all.
Her passion grew from her life's work in providing better housing for working people. She always strove to incorporate an open green space in the housing schemes she, in association with such people as the famous art critic John Ruskin, developed this in the poorer parts of London.
Now we discover that Cambridgeshire County Council is proposing to build houses on the small open green space next to the Oasis Centre in St Michael's Avenue / the Waterlees ward.
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This is one of the most deprived areas in the whole of Cambridgeshire.
Both Cambridgeshire and Fenland Councils have established policies to improve the quality of life in deprived areas.
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How can this wholly inappropriate development, which will permanently remove a community resource, possibly meet this clearly stated aim.
The area of the green owned by Cambridgeshire County Council is in a deplorable state.
It is a haven for thistles and nettles and even a place for ducks to swim when part of it floods during wet weather.
But, if it could be placed in the care of Fenland District Council's award winning Parks & Open Spaces Team, who keep their small adjacent section in perfect order, it could be turned into a local focal point, bringing colour, fragrance and pleasure to somewhere that desperately needs its sprints lifting.
Come on Cambridgeshire County Council many of you have all the beauties of Cambridge to enjoy.
Do the right thing by the residents of Wisbech. Give them a bit of beauty too.
Octavia Hill was providing green space over 130 years ago, I'm sure she would still be doing the same today, if she was still with us.
I'm sure an imaginative planting and mini play scheme on this site would attract a grant.
JOHN SMITH
Via email
The Green space which Mr Smith is concerned about. 2101SM119
