The Cheltenham Green Party today welcomed the decision by Cheltenham Borough Council to officially list Hardwick Green as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). This landmark decision follows a dedicated campaign by the St Paul’s Road Area Residents Association (SPRA) and highlights the profound importance of local green spaces to the community.
The designation means that Hardwick Green is formally recognised for its social value to the St Paul’s community, providing an additional layer of protection against potential development and granting the community a formal opportunity to bid for the land should it come up for sale.
Councillor Ashleigh Davies, Green Party Council leader and borough councillor for St Pauls in Cheltenham, commented on the decision: “I’m thrilled to see the decision to make Hardwick Green an Asset of Community Value. This has been a real labour of love from a number of residents within St Pauls who have worked so hard to pull all of this information together. The people of St Pauls have made it clear that this green space is really important to them, and they will fight any effort to develop Hardwick Green.”
The University of Gloucestershire, the previous owner of the Hardwick Campus which includes Hardwick Green, recently completed its sale of the site to a developer. While pre-application discussions have indicated potential residential development, the ACV status ensures that the community’s interests are a material consideration in any future planning applications.
Councillor Davies further emphasised the broader significance of the decision: “The designation of Hardwick Green as an Asset of Community Value underscores its critical role. In an increasingly urbanised area like St. Paul’s, these precious green spaces are essential for everything from flood mitigation and supporting local wildlife to providing vital recreational and health benefits for residents. We must ensure local voices are central to decisions about our cherished community assets, especially when faced with significant land disposals.”
The Cheltenham Green Party applauds the tireless efforts of SPRA and all residents who contributed to this successful nomination. Their dedication demonstrates the power of community action in safeguarding invaluable local amenities. The Green Party remains committed to working with residents to protect and enhance Cheltenham’s green spaces for current and future generations.