Statement: enclosure of land in Thorley Park

Earlier this week, the Stortford and Sawbridgeworth Labour Team were out on the doorstep speaking to local residents about the sudden enclosure of public land in Thorley Park, Bishop's Stortford.

Public amenity land should never be enclosed without planning permission. We are calling upon the council to act urgently to preserve the right of way across and the public's use of this parcel of land in Thorley Park, between Ashdale and Winchester Close.

So far promises have been made to local people but there is scant evidence of any purposeful activity. The council's Planning Department have refused to take enforcement action over the height of the fence because it is only slightly above the legal limit. Yet minor technical infractions by residents are treated punitively.

We have seen evidence that this land has been used by local residents as a public amenity for several decades, and is shown as public land on residents' deeds.

If you have any questions about the campaign, please don't hesitate to get in touch.