by Tim Collins
tcollins@thekmgroup.co.uk
Residents of Willesborough are furious over the sale of a piece of land they claim is used as a local amenity and is a haven for wildlife.
The site on Bentley Road, which goes under the auctioneer’s hammer next Monday, is a much treasured resource, say opponents of the sale.
Richard Scoble, a resident of Bentley Road, is leading the opposition.
Mr Scoble, 59, said: “This land has been open to the whole community as long as we have been here. That’s over 40 years for some residents.”
“It is a massive amenity enjoyed by adults and children alike.”
Of particular concern to the residents is the description of the land on the website of auctioneers Clive Emson as 'land with potential’ included as a 'key feature’.
The auctioneers’ website also describes the land as having a 244ft road frontage to Bentley Road and extending to approximately 1.5 acres (0.58 hectares).
It is up for sale with a guide price of £10,000 to £15,000 and described as being “freehold with vacant possession.”
It does not say who owns the land or why it is being sold.
Mr Scoble and others worry that the land, which they claim is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, may be sold to developers.
“This land should be protected, not just another site to jam buildings into,” he added.
Kevin Gilbert, an auctioneer at Clive Emerson, said: “All land has potential, but it is always subject to all of the necessary consents being available.”
A public meeting to address concerns over the sale is being held by residents on Wednesday night at St Mary The Virgin Church, Willesborough.