CONGRATULATIONS to Ponteland and its residents over their victory in the fight to protect their green belt from housing development.

My town, Prudhoe, has a similar, though smaller, sensitive meadow under threat, with nobody in authority, or an influential group, seeming to be prepared to defend it.

The meadow is vital to the well-being and safety of Priestclose Wood. A medieval wood – not a plantation –described by Northumberland Wildlife Trust as a “gem”.

Used and abused over the centuries, Priestclose Wood has survived against all the odds; it has historical value – Cromwell’s troops camped there.

My friends (I can’t walk it any more) tell me that the red squirrel has gone, bird numbers are down, bats, badgers, hedgehogs, foxes and deer are rarely seen.

The meadow, included in plans to build housing on the old Prudhoe Hospital site, is vital as a buffer between the development and Priestclose Wood.

The builders wish to begin with this greenfield site, erecting houses right up to the perimeter of Priestclose Wood.

Formerly, I was quite relaxed about the development of the hospital site; it made sense. I was assured, in the past, if any development took place the meadow would be safe and remain as a wildlife corridor. Now, I am alarmed!

Building up against the wood border will inevitably lead to new residents dumping their garden waste over whatever fencing is provided and their beloved pets hunting in the wood, night and day. The wildlife corridor will be lost.

I did write, earlier in this letter, that nobody seemed prepared to defend Priestclose Wood – not quite true. A young woman called at my house with a petition asking for a buffer zone between the development and the wood. I thought it was too late – apparently not.

So, I ask, in desperation, what is the view of my county councillors and town councillors? I think they were more interested in “affordable housing” than the natural world.

I have heard that Northumberland County councillors on the planning committee were confused – in a muddle –and did not follow the recommendations of their officers. Chairman, please look again.

I’m not fit enough, or able to fight any more, but there are others that can. How about some support from my MP? How about some support from the Friends of Prudhoe Woods, Prudhoe Community Partnership, the Pride in Prudhoe group and also those that have command of social media?

I’m not against the development of the old Prudhoe Hospital site; just leave a breathing space for all to enjoy – including the new householders.

The importance, sustainability and survival of Priestclose Wood ranks above possible benefits like affordable housing, walled gardens, play equipment and rejuvenated parks.

Planners, think again before irreversible damage is done to the environment. Just remember the developers cannot see the wood for the fees.

TONY WILLIAMSON,

Prudhoe