Object

Representation ID: 16961

Received: 04/10/2021

Respondent: Dr Katherine Farr

WOH 274 WTNA

I believe there are plans to build 14 large houses on the ex Wolverhampton Environment Centre.
This 50 hectare green space in the city is an area rich in biodiversity, with many trees, shrubs,
wildflowers, mammals -including [Redacted-sensitive information], birds, insects [Redacted-sensitive information]. These are celebrated in the beautiful
Tolkien iron gates at the entrance to the site. The site is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature
Conservation. It is entirely surrounded by the Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve (LNR) so forms an
important corridor for animals to roam through and inhabit. Its loss would have knock on effects on
the wider LNR, reducing its value for nature conservation, especially if non permeable boundaries e.g.
walls were to be erected, artificially breaking up the area. Houses and roads, with ascendant artificial
lighting, are more difficult and less safe for animals to roam and forage through than a designated
nature reserve and would lead to a loss of biodiversity.
The site provides clean air and water for people to breathe and for animals to drink. There is a very
attractive pond which has been restored with marginal vegetation stands and water lilies, and where
[Redacted-sensitive information] are believed to breed. There are many habitats supporting a wide range of
animals and plants, which would be lost if the site is converted to housing.
I teach [Redacted- GDPR] at the University of Wolverhampton.
The site is a valuable resource which enables local students to study ecology and conservation. The
Wildside Activity Centre has used the site for environmental activities for children -my own included for many years. In addition it provides access for city residents to a green space which is peaceful and
attracted throughout all seasons of the year. My family and I walk there regularly – it was particularly
appreciated during lockdown – and recent research has overwhelmingly shown that being able to get
out into nature has a restorative and positive effect on mental health and physical wellbeing.
Additionally, the vegetation, soils and ponds are important carbon sinks, helping to soak up excess
carbon and add oxygen back into the air. Even if the proposed houses are well designed, the site
would still increase the carbon footprint of the area, and areas of hardstanding and roads will reduce
free drainage and organism habitats.
With relatively low levels of financial support and assistance from willing volunteers from a range of
interested groups, the site could be further improved and managed to become a very attractive,
productive nature reserve, attracting more visitors and used more widely for educational activities,
and could become an area of which the Council could be proud. Walks and activities could be
promoted and enhanced, and material used in local publicity to promote Wolverhampton as a green
city, attracting visitors from beyond the immediate area.
I voted for the staff on the current council as they claimed to have green credentials and to care about
the people of Wolverhampton. If the city is serious about the wellbeing of its inhabitants, quality of
life in Wolverhampton and the health of the planet during the climate crisis, I would urge you in this
small way to protect this remaining area of wildness, so much valued by people and animals.