The Stoke Poges Neighbourhood Plan
The Stoke Poges Neighbourhood Plan is a binding statutory document, part of the national planning framework. It must be observed by all planning departments when deciding on applications.
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It has a word to say about the Green Infrastructure of Stoke Poges.​
This map from the Stoke Poges Neighbourhood Plan shows that the land earmarked for a private football academy is not an empty development site — it is already safeguarded as part of our village’s Green Infrastructure.
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Existing Green Infrastructure (green)
Vital land for nature, recreation and the rural character of our village. It must be protected, not built over. -
Amenity Open Space (striped)
Designated open space for the whole community. By definition, it cannot be given away for private or exclusive use. -
Network Enhancement Zone 1 (blue)
The highest-priority zone for preserving and restoring wildlife corridors. Any development here must add to biodiversity, not remove it. -
Network Enhancement Zone 2 (orange)
A supporting zone for strengthening green links across the parish. Development that fragments or fences off this land directly undermines the Neighbourhood Plan.
Why This Matters
The proposed private football academy sits right across these protected zones. Approving it would:
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Remove land guaranteed as community open space
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Block wildlife corridors that the Plan requires to be enhanced, not destroyed
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Hand over a public asset to an exclusive, commercial scheme
The Neighbourhood Plan was created by residents, for residents. It is clear: our green spaces are for everyone, not for private takeover.
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