It was with real concern that the newly elected Reform UK councillors learned that plans had been brought forward under the previous Lib Dem/Labour administration to sell off part of Cymbeline Meadows.
This 183-acre site is one of Colchester’s most important green spaces. It includes working farmland, meadows, woodland trails, a conservation area, deciduous woodland and the River Colne, providing a rich variety of habitats for local wildlife. Species recorded in the area include kingfishers, noctule bats, badgers and numerous butterflies.
Cymbeline Meadows is a true green lung for Colchester, valued by residents, walkers, families and nature lovers alike. For any council to consider selling off part of such an important public asset is deeply concerning.
Reform UK welcomes the decision by the newly appointed council leader, Councillor Paul Dundas, to halt the sale and confirm that this treasured site will not be developed, but will remain in public ownership.
We are very pleased to see that common sense has prevailed.