Council puts green spaces on the map with Fields in Trust
More than 20 open and green spaces in Newcastle-under-Lyme are the first sites in the borough being considered for legal protection in perpetuity.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has submitted Fields in Trust applications for a number of local sites including Arnold Grove in Bradwell, Clough Hall Park, Kidsgrove; Newchapel recreation ground, Sandy Lane, Newcastle; and Wye Road/Bunny Hill, Clayton, with more submissions for places like the Lyme Forest and Thistleberry Parkway coming shortly.
In May, the council announced its intention to enter into legal agreements with the charity to ensure that popular council-owned land – such as parks, open spaces, playgrounds and sports fields – remain publicly accessible for recreational activities, carbon capture and nature appreciation now and in the future.
Almost 100 green spaces in total, including Brampton Park and Coalpit Hill in Talke, could benefit from Deeds of Dedication applications, where a landowner can permanently designate land for a specific use. The full list is available here.
Council Leader Simon Tagg said:
Newcastle-under-Lyme is home to many wonderful natural environments and while these are currently protected by local policies including council strategies and the emerging Local Plan, there is a risk that this could potentially change at any point in the future. We want to secure permanent protection for these popular areas – which are used by residents, provide habitats for wildlife and capture vast amounts of harmful carbon dioxide – so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Good progress is being made with the Fields in Trust process. Since the announcement earlier this year, work has been underway to submit applications in phases. We’re preparing to issue the latest round shortly and will continue to work hard on developing further submissions.”
Following assessment, Wolstanton Park and Marsh, which is owned by the Duchy of Lancaster, does not require Fields in Trust status and neither do cemeteries as protected burial sites.
Meanwhile, Staffordshire County Council is recommending a public inquiry takes place to determine a historic request for Village Green status, for Sandy Lane in Newcastle, which is supported by the council. An inquiry is set to take place in January 2026.