Councillors Alexa Michael, Josh Coldspring-White and Thomas Turrell have secured a new hedge along Layhams Road to better protect Coney Hall Recreation Ground from unauthorised encampments by some in the Traveller community.
Coney Hall Recreation Ground is a frequent target, despite a number of legal sites being available. Following the most recent encampment, Councillors Coldspring-White and Turrell met officers from the Council’s Environment team to discuss options for deterrents. A hedge has been identified as the preferred option. Officers have now confirmed that a 105 metre (344 foot) long hedge will be planted in November. The hedge will take 3-5 years to grow fully.
Josh Coldspring-White said:
“As a local resident, I know just how frustrating and unfair these kinds of incidents can be. It is right that we take a tough stance on this issue and send a clear signal that anti-social behaviour and misuse of our cherished public spaces will not be tolerated. We look forward to seeing robust action taken and putting in place a long-term solution to this problem.”
