BHS protests against destruction of Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty in Surrey
The British Horse Society is protesting against a proposal
made by Star Energy to drill for gas in an Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty in Albury, Blackheath Common and the Chilworth
area.
The BHS is objecting to the proposal on the grounds that
the access road created by Star Energy will permanently destroy
the lanes and bridleways which are historic features.
The bridleways and lanes can never be restored once widened
and, if destroyed, riders, walkers and joggers will be deprived
of essential and unique access routes across the Common.
Avril Sleeman, County Access Bridleway Officer for Surrey,
is the equestrian representative on the Action Committee set
up to save Blackheath Common.
She said: "The effect of the access road and site will
be devastating on riders, both accessing the common and using
the rights of way. It is not possible to divert this bridleway
since its ambience is unique, and the sunken lanes, once wrecked,
cannot be reconstructed.
"There is a huge concentration of horses and equestrian
businesses in this area. A lot of people will be greatly affected
by the plan."
Avril continued: "A very worrying aspect for me is the
hidden agenda that Star Energy have. They have not yet applied
for this, but we believe that part two of their plan will
be to build a gas storage facility on the site. So it will
not just be for three years, it will be ongoing."
BHS Regional Development Officer for the South East and London
Pat Gaywood also expressed her concern. She said: "The
most worrying aspect of this project is the desecration of
the little routes that will have to be widened to accommodate
lorries. These paths are irreplaceable.
"We need riders to unite so that we can prevent this
destruction and so that we can all continue to enjoy the area
for many years to come."
The plans will have a serious environmental impact for local
residents, recreational users and wildlife. To register your
protest, or for more information logon to www.saveblackheathcommon.com
<http://www.saveblackheathcommon.com>
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