Action calls to clean up 'abandoned' common that has been 'left to rot'

COUNCIL UNDER FIRE FROM RESIDENTS GROUP OVER STATE OF STOURBRIDGE COMMON

- By KATIE GREEN

(RYAN HENNIKER)

ONE of Cambridge's biggest green spaces has been “abandoned” and “left to rot”, it has been claimed.

Locals have complained about the condition of Stourbridge Common, saying that parts of the common have been left in a bad state. Used needles, dumped mobility scooters and other rubbish are commonly fly-tipped at the park.

Locals say that part of the common is often used as a campsite.

Ryan Henniker, chair of the East Chesterton Residents Group, says the common has been “abandoned” by local authorities.

He said: “We have seen a wide range of wildlife there, everything from Kingfishers to muntjacs. It’s such a rich, biodiverse spot.

“During the winter, the common floods and creates an amazing environment for some creatures. However, the rubbish is pushing them [animals] out. What we have seen over the past three years is a steady lack of investment, support and care for the site, resulting in a decline in wildlife sightings and a lack of site use from the public.

“Most noticeably, there are two abandoned encampments which have been left to rot and ruin on for over two years now, each representing a significant threat to the public and wildlife, from used needles to excrement and non-biodegradable products.”

Mr Henniker added that the common has a “historical significance in Cambridge” and it is “such an important area for wildlife”.