Leaders in Ipswich hope to buy woodland to protect town's 'green lung'
The woodland off Mitre Way has a long history of refused planning applications
Ipswich Borough Council has announced plans to buy woodland in the town to try and protect the 'valuable green lung' for the town.
The authority says the woodland in Mitre Way would be protected and managed to make sure it benefits residents in the future.
It's all part of wider plans in the town to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
Mitre Way is 1.12 acres of woodland which is close to the waterfront and town centre.
There is a long history of refused planning applications on the site with the council hoping to protect its long-term future as woodland.
The White Elm Woodland Community Interest Company (CIC) was set up to endeavour to secure the future of the wood and were crowd-funded to try and acquire the site.
Prior to submitting the offer by the Council, discussions were held with the CIC for them to contribute by way of a Deed of Gift towards the Council’s proposed acquisition. However, the Council would be the sole purchaser.
A plan is being developed to ensure the woodland is actively managed and that it remains protected and a valuable asset to the local community. There may be scope for positive community involvement in the site management.
Cllr David Ellesmere. Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, says: “I am glad we have been able to work with White Elm Woodland to protect this valuable “green lung” in Ipswich.
"The purchase by the Council gives certainty that this land will not be developed in future and will be managed as woodland for the benefit of current and future generations.”
Faye Harburt, a Director of White Elm Woodland Community Interest Company, says: “We are pleased that Mitre Way would be maintained as woodland and we would look forward to working with Ipswich Borough Council to ensure the best use of this green space in the coming years.”