Winchester sports ground set for protection from future development
Winchester City Council has agreed to protect a sport ground in the east of the city from future development, supporting the council’s new corporate priorities to protect the environment and help the district enjoy its green spaces.
The council announced today that it will work with Fields in Trust to protect the Garrison Ground in Bar End through a binding legal commitment which will secure the use of the land as playing fields and for recreation.
The 6.65-acre Garrison Ground is an integral part of the Winchester Sport & Leisure Park. The area is already well used for football by local groups, and after the new leisure centre opens, will provide two football pitches, informal recreational use, and measures will be taken to encourage biodiversity by creating new habitats.
King George V playing fields adjacent to the site have existing protection from future development.
Cllr Martin Tod Cabinet Member for Service Quality and Transformation, said:
“The Garrison Ground is a much-valued part of Winchester providing recreational space for the community. We want people to enjoy the Garrison Ground now, and to ensure that this precious green space is protected for future generations."
The next steps are that the council will prepare the work to enter into a deed of dedication with Fields in Trust.