Harlestone Manor Parish Council Takes Ownership of the Loxton Fields Public Open Space From David Wilson Homes

We are very pleased to announce that at the end of April, the ownership and management of the green space at the edge of the Loxton Fields estate was legally transferred to the Parish Council, representing a significant achievement for the parish.

The sum of £40,000 was paid to the Parish Council as part of the agreement, which will be used for the ongoing maintenance of the area including grass cutting, boundary treatment, future planting, and management of the balancing pond. The transfer followed 18 months of negotiation with DWH, Daventry District Council (now West Northamptonshire council) and residents. This ensured that prior to the handover, the land was transferred in line with our expectations and those of the residents immediately overlooking the area, including general tidying of the site, and replacement of trees and shrubs which had died.

Over this period, we also took the opportunity to consider how the site could be used for the benefit of all residents of the parish going forwards. At the council meeting on 16 July 2021, it was agreed that for the time being, and out of respect for the natural environment, the site would be retained as an area for wildlife, ensuring that the many species currently using the land could continue to do so. We will of course be opening up the site for everyone to enjoy, and plan to install some seating areas so people can make the most of this beautiful area. As we approach the summer months, we’re sure you’ll agree, that this will be a wonderful space for children and families to enjoy and will be a great addition to our existing parish facilities.

The Parish Council will shortly be undertaking a risk assessment and making plans for the maintenance of the site, in preparation for the grand opening over the Bank Holiday weekend in June. Creating harmony between people and wildlife using the space will be our priority in the short term, and to this end, some of our residents have expressed a wish to form a small group to look after the area, maybe plant some wildflowers, and generally monitor the area so that our other feathered and furry residents continue to visit us.

If you would like to get involved and have a bit of time to spare, please contact cllr.russburke@harlestonemanorpc.org.uk for more information. We very much hope you will take some time to visit the park over the Jubilee weekend and take a look at what it has to offer. We are sure that you won’t be disappointed!