Neighbours ‘up in arms’ over plans to build 49 homes near protected species in field in South Oxhey

Nicola Ford, who lives in Letchworth Close, South Oxhey, was alarmed to receive a letter in the post from Three Rivers District Council informing people that the land to the south of Foxgrove Path and Heysham Drive in South Oxhey may be developed.

Ms Ford says the plans “outrageous” as the wildlife living there may be threatened and the location is “unsuitable” as the field has flooded in the past.

She said: “The plans are ludicrous. They are getting rid of amenities such as pubs and bus links and just replacing them with more houses.

“We understand there is a need for housing but it is becoming a concrete jungle and it is outrageous.”

A resident living in Chilwell Gardens, South Oxhey, who was not named, was also concerned about the field being a home for horses for more than 20 years.

They said: “Bats as a protected species need land free from buildings and light pollution to feed and survive.

“This land has been used for livery for ponies and horses for over 20 years and as such is very organic having never had pesticides or fertilizers on it, because of the grazing; scrub type land has been created which attracts insects that the bats thrive on.

“We also house a fox den under our field shelter which has been used every year, the rafters of our shelter also have swifts nesting in the roof which again shows how natural the wildlife finds our environment.”

Cllr Joan King, who represents South Oxhey and Eastbury, added: “I’m not against housing but there are concerns about flooding, as well as the wildlife such as the bats, slow-worms and newts.

“I do not think it is a suitable place for the development.”

Three Rivers District Council and also the Wildlife Trust have been contacted for a comment.

To sign a petition to “Save Oxhey Fields and Surrounding Areas”, visit: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/704/815/770/save-south-oxhey-fields-and-surrounding-areas/?taf_id=44665975&cid=fb_na#bbfb=338652756