Councillors protect open space from development in Milton Keynes town

The land near Melrose Avenue in Bletchley, was purchased by a private owner at auction in July and local residents and councillors are keen to protect the much loved open space from development.

In July 2020, this and another open space in Bletchley were both put up for sale at auction. While local Labour Councillors Nigel Long, Mick Legg & Lauren Townsend were successful in encouraging West Bletchley Parish Council to purchase the second site, the Melrose Avenue space was purchased by a third party.

The interim tree preservation order has been applied to a tree on the Melrose Avenue site, which will prevent the owner cutting down the tree pending a final decision on a permanent tree preservation order.

Cllr Nigel Long said: “I am delighted that we have been able to get an interim tree presentation order on this open space in order to protect it from the threat of development. This is a success for West Bletchley residents and councillors. But we need to do more and need the interim order to be confirmed by Milton Keynes Council.”

He said it is important that residents, local councillors and the Parish Council make submissions to the council supporting the Tree Preservation Order (TPO).

“We’re asking residents to write to Milton Keynes Council to support the TPO: They should write to: Mrs W. Lawrence, Legal Services, Civic Offices, 1 Saxon Gate East, MK9 3EJ.”

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