Save Newcastle Wildlife Takes Action Against Controversial City Council Plans

Save Newcastle Wildlife are continuing to fight against Newcastle City Council's plans to build a walking and cycling route through the Havannah Nature Reserve, citing concerns about wildlife disturbance and habitat destruction. The council's proposals have been met with growing opposition from local residents and wildlife enthusiasts, who argue that the reserve is an essential green space that should be protected from development. The issue is not just about the immediate impact on the reserve, but also about the broader implications for wildlife conservation and the availability of green spaces in the city.

Key Takeaways:

• Save Newcastle Wildlife are taking further action against Newcastle City Council's plans to build a walking and cycling route through the Havannah Nature Reserve.
• The proposed route would disturb wildlife such as deer, brown hare, and hedgehogs, which could be catastrophic for the local ecosystem.
• The Newcastle brownfield register lists 107 sites suitable and available for residential development, sparking concerns about the need for new housing developments and the impact on green spaces.
• The council's proposals have been met with opposition from local residents and wildlife enthusiasts, who argue that the reserve is an essential green space that should be protected from development.
• Irene Davidson, a resident of Wideopen, has expressed concerns that the proposals would lead to the destruction of the reserve and the disruption of local wildlife habitats.
• Five Mile Park in Wideopen was previously built in a similar area, resulting in the disturbance of the great crested newt population.
• The council's plans could set a precedent for other areas of the city, including the Great Park, which is considered a prime location for development.

Statistics:

• 107 brownfield sites in Newcastle are listed as suitable and available for residential development (Newcastle City Council).
• The proposed walking and cycling route would disturb local wildlife populations, including deer, brown hare, and hedgehogs.
• The council's existing housing development plans have resulted in the destruction of at least one local habitat, the great crested newt population in Five Mile Park.

Sources:

• [Newcastle City Council]
• [Source for 107 brownfield sites]
• Irene Davidson's statement on Save Newcastle Wildlife's Facebook page