It’s time for the Neighbourhood plan to listen
Hertford Heath is growing, and with 84 new houses coming, that means more families and more children will call this home. But where will the children get the green space they need?
This post will explore why the Neighbourhood Plan needs to prioritise parks, gardens, and natural open areas as our village expands, especially for the benefit of existing and future children – and why the Barclay Grange proposal deserves your support.
Why Green Spaces are Essential for Children ·
Playtime Power: Children NEED unstructured outdoor play. Parks provide space to run, climb, explore, and use their imaginations in ways indoor environments can’t match. This is crucial for physical and cognitive development. ·
Mental Well-being Boost: Time in nature reduces stress, improves focus, and fosters a sense of wonder in children. It’s the antidote to screen time overload and the pressures of modern life. ·
Building Social Skills: Parks are where kids meet new friends, learn to share, negotiate, and form the social bonds that will serve them throughout life. ·
Connection to the Natural World: Green spaces give kids a chance to observe plants, insects, and wildlife firsthand. This fosters a love for nature and instils a sense of environmental responsibility. ·
Healthy Habits for Life: Children who play actively outdoors are more likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they grow older. Parks help set that foundation.
Planning for a Child-Friendly Future · Green Spaces in the Masterplan: The Parish Council should require that a significant percentage of new development land be dedicated to parks, playgrounds, and natural play areas. ·
Variety is Key: We need more than just a village green. Pocket parks, nature trails, and safe, tree-lined streets encourage everyday play. ·
Connecting the Dots: Let’s create green corridors that link new neighbourhoods to existing green spaces, encouraging walking, biking, and independent exploration for our kids. ·
Children’s Voices Matter: Kids should have a say in the design of their play spaces! This ensures they’ll be exciting and engaging for them.
Expanding wisely means building a village where children can thrive. Prioritising green spaces is an investment in their physical health, mental well-being, and overall development. Let’s advocate for green spaces that give children the room to grow and flourish!
Unlike other proposals, Barclay Grange is proposing around 5 acres of open green space where children and nature can thrive.
For more information visit www.barclaygrange.com/proposal
