19 Sep 2023
Fears that a much-loved area of common land north of Harpenden could be sold the highest bidder have been quashed thanks to the creation of a new charity.
The Friends of Kinsbourne Green Common will enable the local community to purchase the land from the current owners without going to auction as planned.
The Common has been in the ownership of the same family for almost 50 years and the beautiful and biodiverse open space has flourished under their careful management.
The 35.12 acre site is home to two car parks and a Scout hut.
Kate Sheffield, chair of Harpenden Rural Parish Council said: “I am delighted to hear that this much-loved open space will be passed into the hands of a community charity.
“I have been overwhelmed by the positivity and team spirit shown by local residents over the past few weeks and am so glad that the owners have decided to sell to The Friends of Kinsbourne Green Common. This is something we should all celebrate, as I believe it will help to bring our wonderful community even closer together.
The current owners of Kinsbourne Green Common, who have asked not to be named, added: “We are delighted to be handing over the stewardship of Kinsbourne Green Common to such an exciting newly-formed community group, who are interested in protecting and maintaining it on behalf of the local community, so that it can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
The Friends of Kinsbourne Green Common will be structured so all local residents can be members and have a say in how it is cared for.
With the purchase now agreed, funds must now urgently be raised by the end of November 2023 in order to complete the sale.
The aim is to maintain the land in its current state and going forward, work to further improve the rich biodiversity and ensure it is accessible to all.
The bid has been led by local residents, with Sue Archer, Marcus Whitehead and Tim Wright setting the wheels in motion with initial pledges, but the idea is it will a charity for the whole community to be a part of.
If you would like to pledge a charitable donation towards the land purchase and ongoing maintenance of the common, or volunteer to help with the charity, please email kinsbournegreencommon23@gmail.com
A website is under construction and you can follow progress at www.kinsbournegreencommon.org.uk
