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 consultation on 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 Backs Future of Aldenham Reservoir as Owners Lower Water Level

Oliver Dowden has this week renewed his support for Aldenham Reservoir and maintaining it as a community asset. The pledge came after the news that the sluice gates at the reservoir have been opened by its owners, Liberty Lake Leisure Ltd, releasing water and lowering its depth by a metre.

Oliver Welcomed to Hidden Bushey Nature Reserve

Oliver on Friday visited the Fishers Field Nature Reserve in Bushey for tea, cakes and a tour of the reserve.

Oliver was invited by the Friends of Fishers Field, the voluntary residents’ group who run and maintain the reserve.

Borough Council & Oliver ready to fight reservoir draining plans

Oliver has re-affirmed his support for the campaign to preserve Aldenham Reservoir. The commitment came following news that Liberty Aldenham have notified Aldenham Sailing Club that they intend to partly drain the reservoir and fence off the surrounding area from the public.

Local MPs Expose Rail Freight Terminal’s Lack of Transport for Workers

Oliver Dowden, Member of Parliament for Hertsmere, and Anne Main, Member of Parliament for St Albans, have written a joint letter exposing concerns over what provisions have been made for the enormous numbers of workmen and heavy equipment that will be needed to construct the Radlett Rail Freight

Oliver raises planning concerns about Potters Bar in Parliament

Mr Dowden's comments follow news that Sustainability Developments Ltd are now proposing to build over 600 homes on green belt land between Northaw and Cuffley. Mr Dowden has previously raised concerns about the Royal Veterinary College's plans for over 150 homes on green belt land just outside Little Heath.