Councillors concerned over proposed Diamond Jubilee branding for Winchester open spaces (From Romsey Advertiser)

Councillors concerned over proposed Diamond Jubilee branding for Winchester open spaces

1:59pm Thursday 29th March 2012 in Winchester

WINCHESTER city councillors expressed concerns about plans to select four parks to be Queen Elizabeth II Commemorative Fields.

The city council has chosen four areas – part of Winnall Moors, St Giles Hill, Oram’s Arbour and St Faith’s Meadow – to receive the designation and extra protection against development.

But Hampshire Wildlife Trust is worried the designation could undermine its conservation.

At the town forum city councillors expressed concerns.

Cllr Fiona Mather said: “I agree with the wildlife trust as far as St Faith’s Meadow is concerned. I would be dead against any changes to the way it is managed.”

Cllr Ray Pearce said: “Residents around Oram’s Arbour are concerned being nominated may change the whole thing. Since 1864 when the arbour was given to the city it has not changed.”

Steve Tilbury, corporate director, said the intention was to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. In the past new playing fields would have been created. In 2012 the intention was simply to “re-badge things...There is no intention to change these places.”