Defending our Countryside

One of the great pleasures of living in our part of Hertfordshire is the countryside we have right on our doorstep. I grew up enjoying the green fields around Radlett and love the space and freedom it provides. It makes our towns and villages distinct and special places to live. We of course need more homes for our children and grandchildren, but this must not be at the expense of what makes our area special. 

Nationally, I have championed the maintenance of our green open spaces. Locally, I have joined campaigns against inappropriate and unsustainable developments. 

I have worked closely with STRIFE to do all I can to resist the construction of the Radlett Rail Freight Terminal that would clog our roads, blight our countryside and put further pressure on the Thameslink line. I've championed the maintenance and re-planting of precious trees across the Borough. In Bushey I am also continuing to work with all parties to help secure the future of Aldenham Reservoir. I am also working with residents in Borehamwood to help fight the De-registration and Exchange of village green land at Woodcock Hill. 

I urge constituents to engage with the council’s as they develop the new local plan, and I have stressed to councillors the importance of protecting our green spaces as they work to put a new plan in place. I am also engaging with the Housing Secretary to raise constituents’ concerns about Hertsmere’s housing targets.  

It is a key priority of mine to protect our precious green open spaces for generations to come. 

News

Oliver's Column for My News - March 2023

As many of you know, I am extremely concerned about the burden being put on our green open spaces by development pressure. Growing up locally, I understand how vital it is to protect this.

Oliver Continues Work with Local Green Belt Society

Oliver recently met again with the Elstree and Borehamwood Green Belt Society, to discuss his ongoing work keeping our local green spaces safe.

They discussed the future of Woodcock Hill Village Green, the solar farm proposal in Radlett, Aldenham Reservoir, the Local Plan and more.

Oliver's Column for My News - November 2022 (Bushey)

I have been enjoying spending time out and about in Bushey in recent weeks. After speaking to numerous residents, I know that many remain very concerned about the future of the former Bushey Country Club. 

Oliver's Column for My News - September 2022

As someone who was born in the area and grew up locally, I know the vital importance of protecting our green spaces. They don’t just give people the chance to enjoy the countryside and the open air; they are crucial to the character of our nation.  

Oliver Meets with Elstree and Borehamwood Green Belt Society

Oliver met with the Elstree and Borehamwood Green Belt Society (EBGBS) to discuss his ongoing work to protect the local Green Belt.

They discussed Hertsmere’s recently shelved draft Local Plan, as well as the future of Woodcock Hill Village Green and Aldenham Reservoir.