Development Allocations

Object

Representation ID: 18300

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs JULIE Friedl

Back ground
It is stated that the plan has to be supported by robust evidence which will look at sustainability access to jobs and services and many other issues. Working with the NHS, Education Service and others in order to look at infrastructure needbefore we decide on sites. We will look to allocate sites for developement that are in the most sustainable locations in terms of transport and access to exisitng or new infrastructure.
We will look at infrastructure needs and opportunites before we decide on sites to ensure our road networks have capacity to accommodate development growth . We will look to ensure that sites are located in sustainable locations,with access to public transport links to reduce rerlaince on car usage.

With reference to New housing future green belt developmentparcels DUH 208 Holbeache and DUH 211 The Triangle.
As a general item the Black Country Plan has not been developed with regard to The current National Planning Policy Framework 20 July 2021.

I do not believe these sites are sustainable development.
Regarding transport The sites are not close to dual carriageway road network. The natural boundary of the A449 a main road link betweeen Kidderminster and through to `Wolverhampton . The road network inot Dudley Borough is also single carriageway A4101. This is also the main route to Russellls Hall Hospital. The main hospital serving the region . The route is heavily trafficked and emergency vehicles are severely hampered by this. Demands made greater since the closure of the maternity unit at Wordsley. Ths closure means additional services have to be provided outside the region at Worcester , New Cross and Queeen Elizabeth. A 45 minute journey at best.
In addition recent second tier developement in South Staffs at Kinver and Wombourne has further increased demand on roads to access retail , work , schools and health facilties.
Dudley as a whole suffers from a lack of suitable roads . The lack of comprehensive rail and bus routes also hinders sustainable developement.
Local neighbourhood shopping is limited with villages such as Wall Heath, Kingswinford and towns such as Stourbridge , Brierley Hill and Dudley having few options.These areas are not seved by the Metro route.
I do not believe NHS and Education services are sufficient to serve this developement.
I do not believe the plan has made sufficient consideration to infrastructure for transport, telecommunications, security , wasste management, water supply,waste water or floodc risk assessment.(still to be evaluated).

Object

Representation ID: 18349

Received: 05/10/2021

Respondent: Nicola Hedges

Wolverhampton - Greenbelt land adjacent to Wood Hayes Rd / Sundour Crescent.

We have lived [location disclosed] for 5 years now.
We have a private gate which leads onto the playing field [proximity]. My son has tourettes and the field has been a godsend to him. He can run and use up energy to help his body calm down so he can sleep at night. My son has some really bad 'tic' days and if this field is taken away I really dont know what to do. As a family we are livid with this proposal to build on our green space, soon nowhere in Wolverhampton will be green!
This will de-value our homes and take away our quiet peaceful crescent and spoil our beautiful views.
Also the water table on those fields is too high if you build on there will all the water then flood our homes every heavy downpour!
No body cares about the residents, we pay plenty of council tax and look after the crescent and this is the thanks we get!
Please don't take my sons freedom away!

Object

Representation ID: 18423

Received: 05/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Richard Anderson

I am sending you this email to express my deep concern and objection to the housing proposals on
the WEC in Wolverhampton, as specified in the Black Country Plan - page 608, ref WOH274 WTNA,
WEC Smestow Valley, Wolverhampton.
The WEC is now clearly an integral part of the Smestow Valley Nature Reserve, which is the only
nature reserve to be found within the city limits of Wolverhampton. As such, it provides an area of the
city where people can walk, relax or pursue other activities in the fresh air and in a beautiful and
unique rural setting entirely within the city. The reserve contains open grass spaces, woodland, ponds,
and a canal towpath and railway walk running alongside. Also, as a nature reserve it provides a much
welcome sanctuary for a wide variety of both animal and plant life.
In this day and age when we are all so aware of the environment and the damage we are doing to it, it
seems inconceivable to me that the WEC should be compromised in this way. Furthermore, if this
scheme is allowed to go ahead, what is there to stop further development on the WEC/Smestow
Valley Nature Reserve, or indeed on any other of the open spaces in Wolverhampton?
I therefore beseech you not to proceed with this plan, and instead to fully support the protection of
all the open green spaces in Wolverhampton for this and future generations.

Object

Representation ID: 18453

Received: 11/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Nerinder Singh

I completely OBJECT to the housing proposal for the old St Luke’s School. It is near enough impossible for traffic at present and any additional housing is sure to go from that and result in fatality/fatalities.

Object

Representation ID: 18474

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Sport England

WOH193/194 - Former St Lukes Junior School, Goldthorn
Sport England acknowledge that mitigation for the loss of the former school playing field has already been provided at the new St Lukes School site. We also acknowledge that the site is proposed to be carried over from the adopted City Centre Area Action Plan allocation. Notwithstanding these points, Sport England are aware that there are pressures to expand the school facilities at the neighbouring Royal School and Royal Junior School that places a threat to existing playing fields on those neighbouring sites. Sport England considers that some or all of this housing allocation should be re-allocated to address those education needs to ensure that the existing school playing fields are protected, and potentially to further develop the school's sports facilities where needed.

Object

Representation ID: 18475

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Sport England

WOH199 - Former Northicote School, Northwood Sport England have agreed with the Council a proposed package of mitigation for the loss of playing field at this site which involves investment in providing better quality pitches at Bee Lane playing fields. However, at the time of writing the current planning application is undetermined and the mitigation has not been implemented. Therefore, the policy should make specific reference to mitigating the loss of the playing field in accordance with para 99 of the NPPF.

Object

Representation ID: 18476

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Sport England

WOH267 - South Staffordshire Golf Course, land at Codsall Road, Wolverhampton
The proposed allocation involves the loss of part of the golf course (1 hole). The table refers re-configuring the course to replace the hole lost to development to retain a high standard of golf course in accordance with the existing Playing Pitch Strategy. England Golf advise that it may be feasible to successfully re-configure the course, but would be unable to comment further without more detailed plans. Re-configuring the existing course on less land may not meet para 99 of the NPPF where this results in a quantitative loss of land used for sport? The policy wording should be revised to ensure suitable mitigation that accords with para 99 of the NPPF (which might require an equitable replacement area of land).

Object

Representation ID: 18477

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Sport England

WOE755 - Rolls Royce Playing Field, Spring Road Sport England notes the reference in the table for the need to mitigate the loss of the former playing field/bowling green. Suggest the wording is refined to require that in the absence of evidence that demonstrates the site to be surplus for sport, that equitable mitigation be secured in line with para 99 of the NPPF and Sport England's Playing Fields Policy.

Object

Representation ID: 18895

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Robert Dunphy

In general I support the increasing of the conservation area.
However I totally disagree with the removal of the held section opposite Penn Hill school.
This adds to its continued inclusion to the conservation area, how can it not. The views from its location are exceptional.
Having walked the route along Vicarage Road as a small child twice a day from the age of 5 attending St Bovt's primary, I would want the future Penn residents to be able to observe the views in the future.
I see the plan as providing the opportunity for development on two fields which I vehemently oppose.

Object

Representation ID: 19218

Received: 04/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Robert Hupperdine

Reference Smestow Valley Nature Reserve – WHO 274 WTNA
I would like to register my objection to any development along this unique area.
The development area in question (WHO 274 WTNA) links the Smestow valley with the Shropshire
Union Canal and is the habitat of the [Redacted-Sensitive information].
Not only is this a beautiful environment, which Wolverhampton is lacking, compared to Dudley,
Walsall and Sandwell, it is part of the traditional green belt.
The proposal to develop 14 luxury homes, serves to benefit the developer and a small number
potential residents, at the expense of the thousands of people, that either use this area regularly or
periodically in their leisure me.
No matter if it’s just for walking their dog, a play area for local children, a running, cycling or walking
area for exercise, or for bird and nature lovers. This area is at the hub of local people’s quality of life.
Therefore weighing up the significant benefits provided by this recreational area, against the small
and limited offer provided by the development. I have to conclude that the only people that would
approve such a scheme would be those with a vested interest to make money and with a total
disregard for the quality of life of the local community.
I strongly object to this folly as I believe that it is not in the best interests of the local community.
I am also confident that any political group that would support such a scheme would lose favour for a
very long me.

Object

Representation ID: 19228

Received: 09/10/2021

Respondent: WEC

Ref WOH 274 WTNA WEC
Re The proposed building of residential houses on the above land.
I would like to register my objection to the granting of planning permission.
The proposed location has for many years been an area where the countryside has not been invaded and wildlife has prospered. Even part if part of it was greenhouses it didn’t intrude into nature. It is a special place to be able to wander through and see all manner of things and feel the peace and tranquillity both day and night! No light pollution, and an opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. [redacted - sensitive information]. It was great! Nothing special I suppose but if planning consent is given how long will it be before the wildlife has to re- locate because of human invasion. So many other species of wildlife will suffer the consequences and I know there will be others who will be able to give details of that! Once you give permission for planning to go ahead this little jewel in our city will be destroyed because nobody can say what the consequences will be once development has started!
I doubt that you have been and seen the WEC and how much it is valued to us the local community and once it’s been destroyed what do we have left! For the sake of such few dwellings why would it profit anybody to destroy our nature reserve where my grandchildren can see first hand on our doorstep such beautiful things without having to drive miles! It’s in walking distance for so many and you may think that we are lucky to have this on our doorstep and I agree with you so please refuse this application on these grounds and let them find another area that isn’t treasured by the local community and beyond!

Object

Representation ID: 19301

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Sanjay Janagel

Please re-consider building on the incorrectly labelled brown field site in finchfield/castlecro area as
for the past 20 years it has served as an amazing nature reserve.

The peace and tranquility it brings to people's lives, far outweighs the value of a few houses that can
easily be built elsewhere.

Furthermore the UK does not have a huge array of wildlife due to habitats being destroyed for
industrialisaon, this is another glaring factor as to why this area should not be built on. There are
deer, great created newts, herons, owls and many more creatures that the WEC Smestow
nature valley is home to.

During the global pandemic this area saw a huge rise in fooall as humans tried to re-connect with
nature and get out and about. If this doesn't highlight the importance of the area to humans then I do
not know what will.

The document in queson is: The Black Country Plan - page 608, WOH274, WTNA, WEC Smestow
Valley, Wolverhampton.

No doubt there will be huge backlash if building plans do go ahead.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Object

Representation ID: 19309

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Sandie Carley

Re Black country Plan page 608 Ref WOH274 WTNA WEC Smestow Valley

I would like to put forward my sincere and urgent objection to this plan. We do not need 14 luxury houses building on this land.

There are rare species of [REDACTED- SENSITIVE] species in Great Britain living on and around the WEC not including [REDACTED- SENSITIVE]

I object very strongly and it would require vehicular access across Greenbelt which conflicts with other policies I'm sure you are aware of.

Comment

Representation ID: 19311

Received: 07/10/2021

Respondent: Shore Brittain

I have lived on [REDACTED- GDPR] for [REDACTED - GDPR] years and have seen the Wolverhampton Environmental Centre in all stages of its life, from when it was a functioning nursery with giant glass green houses and through the period that it was left abandoned for years unopen to the public. This finally ended when the site was cleared of its temporary glass structures and perimeter fence removed allowing any resident in the area (Human or animal) unrestricted access to a tranquil haven, which has led the site to become a hub of extreme Biodiversity in the area. With numerous species of native Trees, Birds, Insects, mammals, and endangered amphibians inhabiting the site the ecological importance of the W.E.C cannot be overlooked as any construction would have detrimental effects on these populations.

Considering only the effects of construction on site the noise pollution of constant building would drive out any resident [REDACTED-SENSITIVE]. While the digging up of the site would get rid of the wild grass meadow that has become home for millions of insects, this would cull the insects and concrete over a major food source for birds and mammals and habitat for insects. Once built the effects of housing on the site would cause levels of pollution on the W.E.C to reach never seen levels which would seep out to the surrounding nature reserve.

Resident rubbish, noise and light would deteriorate the site unrecognisable from what it is now. Why would we sacrifice such an amazingly diverse ecosystem that the public enjoy using so much for housing that would ruin everything that makes this site so special.

The W.E.C was built with the aim to help the environment and I believe even though the centre no longer exists, the land should carry on that goal and remain untouched as a place anyone can visit to see some amazing Biodiversity in Wolverhampton that isn't just rats, pigeons, people, and shady politicians

Comment

Representation ID: 19339

Received: 09/10/2021

Respondent: Susan Hill

It saddens me that 14 houses might be built on this beautiful land. What an eye sore it'll be. It'll spoil the nature reserve. Only the other day, Boris Johnson said - people shouldn't have to worry about their view being spoilt by ugly new homes.

It disappoints me that you are still considering to build on what is rightly green belt. The area is one of
the few remaining beautiful places, full of nature and wildlife, and is open for people to enjoy and roam.

Wolverhampton has less than 10% of green space which is one of the lowest in the country.
What also concerns me is if these houses are built, even though the area is beautiful and quiet, it also could be a potential nightmare for the people who buy these homes, as at night me they will be an easy target for burglary, muggings and attacks.
It also makes the area unsafe for people to let their children play as there will be more traffic, potentially a child could get hurt or killed.
It also puts more strain on the police if these things happen.
Very rarely we've had problems with people going down the track on motor bikes. Having houses there will make it easier for these bikers to gain access to the track, making it more dangerous for the public.

Also, we had an incident of men over there with guns and knives, probably poaching, these men are a threat and make the area unsafe to build as it's so secluded.

Please stop the plans to have houses on there. It's an absolutely beautiful area that you are abusing.

Thank you.

Comment

Representation ID: 19340

Received: 28/09/2021

Respondent: Susan Hadley

I wish to comment on the the development plans for the WEC Smestow Valley site, under the above reference on Page 608 of the Black Country Plan.

The WEC, which is part of our only local nature reserve, is home to many species of wildlife, such as [REDACTED- SENSITIVE] and multiple kinds of insects, birds, plants and wild-flowers. It has pools, trees and a shallow wetland. It is a paradise for bio-diversity. Its loss to private housing will have a negative affect on the environment of the whole of Smestow Valley. The destruction of a pedestrianised natural environment, resulting in increased traffic, will only add to the current 'climate emergency' we are facing in the UK.

Many local residents visit the WEC on a daily, or more frequent, basis. In fact, a walk in the area has become a way of life for many during the pandemic. It is a public asset, which is free to everyone and anything that promotes mental and physical well-being, especially during such difficult times as these, deserves to be preserved. Walking in nature is proven for its therapeutic benefits, such as reduction of anxiety and risk of depression, in addition to the physical aspects; aiding in weight maintenance or loss, which is crucial during the current 'obesity crisis' in the UK.

The destruction of this area, for the sake of a few houses, will have negative ramifications for years to come. Wolverhampton now only has approximately 10% of green space left, which needs to be protected at all
costs!

Object

Representation ID: 20040

Received: 01/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Vivien Sanders

Black Country Plan 608 ref WOH274WTNA. WEC Smestow Valley Wolverhampton.
WEC in the only Nature reserve in Wolverhampton. The WEC abbreviation stands for 'Wolverhampton Environment Centre' - these words say it all. It is a peaceful green space which is enjoyed by many people, from the local area and beyond, who are able to appreciate the wildlife, flora and fauna.
The proposal to build houses - nest to a wildlife pool and on land which is frequently under water in the winter is a travesty. Wolverhampton does not have many pleasing features left and this is a jewel. To allow building would destroy the peace and tranquility which is found on the site.
The 'Tolkein' gates are another beautiful feature which were designed by the pupils of the local Smestow School. These gates are now adorned with childrens pictures, ribbons and notices - all pleading for thus dreadful proposal to be rejected.
For the controlling group to designate this land as 'brownfield' is ludicrous. I thought this term referred to unused, inner city land, ex-industrial or vacant buildings. Never would I have thought of land as a Nature Reserve!
We have a duty to preserve green spaces for future generations to enjoy, and I would ask you to take a walk beyond the Tolkein gates and then realise what a disastrous plan this is.

Object

Representation ID: 20214

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Hilda Evans

I don't think that I have been sent the correct form!
I want to support the 'Friends of the WEC' in opposing the plans to build on land beside the Smestow Valley Nature Reserve.
I enclose the flyer that I received for reference.

Information on the Flyer set out below:
There are plans to build 14 luxury homes on a wonderful piece of countryside surrounded by the Smestow Valley Nature Reserve in Finchfield WB3 9AY near to the much loved railway walk, The ex WEC - Wolverhampton Environment Centre.
Please help us and join our FaceBook page Friends of the WEC. (Wolverhampton Environment Centre)
-You can have your say by email to blackcountry[rest of text is blurred]
-Quote reference WOH 274 WTNA
-State your name, address and phone number (which will not be made public)
-and have your say about the future of this beautiful site- home to crested newts and much more
You can also ring Black Country Plan on 01384 814316
Wolverhampton has less designated green space than Dudley, Sandwell or Walsall.
we need to keep what we have for this and future generations.
COMMENTS MUST BE IN BY 11TH OCTOBER 2021
you can help us stop this
Thank You, Friends of the WEC

Object

Representation ID: 20975

Received: 28/09/2021

Respondent: Jackie Nolan

Please, no to building on the WEC

Object

Representation ID: 21199

Received: 05/10/2021

Respondent: Mark Whitehouse

Hi,
I have just found out about plans to build unnecessary luxury houses on the Wolverhampton Environmental Centre surrounded by the beautiful Smestow Valley Nature Reserve much loved by Dog walkers, walkers and cyclists alike. When I see so much unused wasteland in areas around Wolverhampton I feel this would be a shocking disappointment to people who love the area and the surrounding wildlife. At a time when the environment has become a major concern even with our
present government is this a sensible thing to do. I am aware of the need for more social housing but I don't believe building 14 luxury homes on an area of natural beauty is the right thing to do.
Thanks for listening
A voice among many

Object

Representation ID: 21280

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Robin Wintrip

Our property is on an historical development next to the conservsation area on Vicarage Road, Penn, opposite Penn Hall School. Born and bred in Wolverhampton, my wife and I have spent our married life in the Penn area for 44 years and at our current address for 30 years. This area is abundant in beautiful wildlife and our garden enjoys regular visits from, muntjac deer, foxes, squirrels, ducks, pheasants, woodpeckers, redkites, wood pigeons as well as other birds. Vicarage Road is a beautiful ancient road dotted with pictoresque properties leading to historic St Bartholomews church and with outstanding views across to the Malvern Hills. We love to wander along the road taking in the breadth and beauty of this unspoilt location where horses idly pass the time away. We will be heartbroken to see the green space being swallowed up by more cramped housing obscurring the view which would then be lost forever to us and future generations. There is an abundance of brownfield sites littering the Wolverhampton area which should be prioritised for development before any greenbelt sites should even be considered.

Object

Representation ID: 21840

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Ellen Hill

WOH274 WTNA

Hello I live opposite the old Wolverhampton Environment Centre therefore feel obliged to stand up for those who unfortunately do not have a voice. I am saying no to housing being built on the WEC site.

Building on this site is definitely not sustainable development as you will see in my essay which is
thoroughly backed up by government literature and scientific resource.

Object

Representation ID: 21951

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Nial Abbey

Wolverhampton has less than 10% Green space one of the lowest in the country. Why would you want to build houses in the only Nature Reserve in Wolverhampton. This should be protected for future generations and to support our health and wellbeing. The noise, air and light pollution will cause irreversible damage. Amongst our flora and fauna there are protected species which we need to protect.

Smestow Valley Nature Reserve needs protecting from development. This is not a Brownfield site!!!

Object

Representation ID: 21965

Received: 09/10/2021

Respondent: Nicky Robertson

I am writing to protest to proposals in the Black Country Plan - page 608, ref WOH274 WTNA, WEC Smestow Valley, Wolverhampton. The land you are proposing to build on is a much loved and valued part of the Smestow valley nature reserve.
It is green belt land, not a brownfield site.
Building on this land will destroy countless wildlife habitats.
There are enough brownfield sites that need regeneration in Wolverhampton without destroying the
few green spaces we have.
Please reconsider.

Object

Representation ID: 22002

Received: 08/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Patricia Frith

Ref WON 274 WTNA SEC Smestow Valley Wolverhampton
I have taken a long time to consider what to write here. As someone who is fortunate enough to still be able to live in my comfortable family home, though now widowed, I am conscious of not wanting to deny other people suitable housing.

However, there does not appear to me that there is a shortage of "luxury" housing in the areas around the Wolverhampton Enviromental Centre land. You only need to consider Wightwick, Castlecroft, Tettenhall, Finchfield, Compton and Tettenhall Wood.

The railway walk and the WEC provide an extensive link between many differing natural habitats. You only need to view the many photos and videos posted daily on the friends of the WEC site to appreciate the importance of these habitats for flora and fauna. These range from numerous types of bees (which I never knew existed) to [redacted] and so on.

During lockdown especially, this area became a salvation for many people from the very young to the
elderly. It was a place for exercise, peace, freedom, meditation. Somewhere to feel part of the natural world. Now that we are out of lockdown it is still a hive of activity.

It is a rare gift to have such an area within easy reach of so many people. Once it is gone, it can not be replaced. We are being encouraged to have wild patches in our gardens, however small. The importance of the natural world to our well being has been shown to be enormous. Such areas must be kept safe for us and those in years to come.

In conclusion, I do not feel that the benefit of luxury houses for a few, and no doubt profit for some building companies, can compare with the benefits for the natural world and all those who gain so much from it. I do hope that this proposed development will NOT go ahead.

Object

Representation ID: 22071

Received: 20/01/2022

Respondent: Rachel Freeland

I wish to object to the building of houses on this site- Black Country Plan P. 608 ref:WOH274WTNA
WEC Smestow Valley, Wolverhampton.
I regularly walk in this area and there are lots of irreplaceable plants and habitats which will be gone forever if we build. The type of houses planned are not the kind needed, and in my opinion this is a terrible Plan.

Object

Representation ID: 22101

Received: 04/10/2021

Respondent: Ronald Cullen

WOH274WTNA
I understand that planning permission is being considered for house building around the Smestow
Valley Nature Reserve .
This site provides a much needed and valuable environmental asset to the people of Wolverhampton and as such I consider that permission should not be granted for this change of use

Comment

Representation ID: 22318

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Miss Rachael Villau

I strongly object to your plans to destroy our greenbelt to build more houses upon. I am referring to the sites in Bushbury and Woodhayes but I also oppose any greenbelt sites being destroyed in any part of the Black Country or the country! There is plenty of brown belt that
can be redeveloped; The old Dale House, Showell Circus, the old Nelson Mandela House, Pendeford, the old Gala bingo, Bushbury Lane, the old Talisman, the old Northicote school site (which since demolition has sat empty for the last 2/3 years!) The old eye infirmary,
Compton Road, has sat empty for over a decade! There are many empty houses across the Black Country you could seek possession of to assist your need for more housing. It is a shambles that there is all this empty land available yet you would rather build on greenbelt. There will be nothing left for my children to enjoy in years to come!

Destroying our green spaces will also destroy wildlife, where are those animals supposed to go? What makes them less worthy? We are already risking hedgehogs and bees becoming endangered, this will be so detrimental to their population. We need to protect our wildlife, as
well as the environment and the climate.

Object

Representation ID: 22459

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Trudi Law

RE-the Black Country Plan - page 608, ref WOH274 WTNA, WEC Smestow Valley, Wolverhampton.

Please keep our area free of houses. It is an area of beauty and particularly in lockdown has been used as a place of sanctuary to those nearby.

I have spent evenings watching enjoying the rest of the wildlife there.

Just go and see the people who visit as part of their walk or just to get away from urban living and experience the sounds of nature.

This area maintains the physical and emotional wellbeing of so many people in the area.

Object

Representation ID: 22575

Received: 28/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Michael Ryan

I would like to object to the prospect of housing being built on the site.
The former WEC is an important part of the Smestow Valley Nature Reserve. It is ridiculous to destroy an 'environmental centre' and unfair to the wildlife residing there.
The ponds and wild flower meadows are full of insects and amphibians, (including Great Crested Newts) and should not be disturbed. There are many creatures that use the space including Bats and Deer. Their home should not be detroyed.
The outdoor space is enjoyed by many people and is the only wild space available in the area.
Please keep the green space of the WEC for future generations to enjoy.