Fencing row on Pincents green space over development fears

Plans to put fencing around footpaths in a green open space have been met with stiff opposition from locals.

Some fear the move is a precursor to development, but the plans say it if for footpath improvements in the area off Pincents Lane, Tilehurst.

In 2022, an outline application for up to 165 dwellings on the western part of the site was refused by West Berkshire Council.

Historically the site was used as a golf course, since lapsed, but now the area is grass and scrub, with old tree lines and areas of young woodland developing.

Tilehurst Parish Council is among the objectors, saying safety of users of the public rights of way would be compromised with fencing surrounding the routes, claiming there would be no easy means of escape.

It says the move would restrict use of this much-used space, particularly during bad weather when original [definitive] paths are impassible.

The parish council is joined by 21 other objectors saying wildlife will be impacted by reduced access to habitat – worried also that the fencing is a precursor to development.

Stock fencing measuring 1.2m in height is proposed.