Call for Rainsbrook and Cawston Countryside Parkland to be included in green improvement network

Councillors and campaigners from Rugby Liberal Democrats have called for the Rainsbrook Valley and Cawston Spinney to become part of Rainsbrook and Cawston Countryside Parkland and be included in Rugby Borough Council's green infrastructure improvement network in any modified Local Plan.

The call for the green nature improvement area linked to a green infrastructure plan comes after considerable public support by residents and positive comments from the Planning Inspector following a site visit.

In May, the Planning Inspector responded with his initial findings on Rugby's Plan. He said that, subject to further public consultation and sustainability appraisal, the Lodge Farm, Brinklow and Coton House allocations of housing should be removed, with additional housing on the proposed allocations at Long Lawford and Binley Woods to compensate.

The Inspector also said that additional protection should be given to the Brandon Stadium site, and land should be set aside for two years in case it is needed for a possible secondary school at Coton Park East.

Rugby Liberal Democrats have consistently called for the Local Plan to provide for significant environmental gain as well as housing growth to meet Rugby's housing need.

There will be an eight-week consultation period over the Summer on the modifications to the Local Plan. Rugby Liberal Democrats are urging residents to respond to the consultation and support the Rainsbrook and Cawston extension of the green infrastructure plan.

Commenting, Councillor Neil Sandison (Eastlands), said:

"We know from the public inquiry where there were very strong representations from both urban and rural representative groups that residents want the Rainsbrook Valley recognised. There are diverse habitats and species along the Dunsmore plateau and farmland particularly where the Rainsbrook Valley, Ashlawn Cutting and the Oxford Canal Corridor cross that need to be protected."

Local resident and campaigner, Lee Chase, added:

"Good quality living landscapes like the Rainsbrook Valley and Cawston Spinney are quickly disappearing or becoming marginalised by development. The Cawston Spinney is a precious historic woodland with much scope to enhance it with significant new planting, nature trails, cycle routes and a wide-open connection to Cawston Greenway. This is what people want and it's time for the decision makers to take action."

Summer consultation for Local Plan changes

https://www.rugby.gov.uk/news/article/1423/summer_consultation_for_local_plan_changes