Peterborough City Council faces a pivotal decision as it prepares to vote on a proposal to lease Werrington Fields to Ken Stimpson Academy. This contentious issue has been a source of ongoing debate among council members and residents for years. The council's intent to build a fence around part of the fields in 2020 was met with backlash and later deemed a "breach of the statutory trust on which the land is held for the benefit of the public." The vote, set for Wednesday evening, seeks to address the longstanding conflict over the public’s access to the fields.
The council's history with Werrington Fields dates back over several years. In 2020, they attempted to fence off part of the fields, sparking community outrage. The council later admitted their error, acknowledging the breach of public trust. Nevertheless, they proceeded with plans in July, justifying the action by designating the area as educational land.
Ken Stimpson Academy, a secondary school adjacent to the fields, has advocated for fencing since 2019 to safeguard students after numerous antisocial incidents. Headteacher Damien Whales emphasized the necessity of ensuring student safety. Meanwhile, residents have expressed concerns about restricted access to a space they have enjoyed for four decades. Campaigner Nyree Ambarchian highlighted the land's dual purpose, stating it should be as much for public use as for educational purposes.
Campaigners propose a compromise: erect a fence with council contribution and implement a community use agreement allowing public access outside school hours. Peterborough City Council has shown willingness to contribute to the fence costs and develop such an agreement.
Throughout this saga, the council has spent £106,398.55 on various related expenses, including fencing, surveys, legal advice, planning applications, and an unsuccessful bid in 2023 to change part of the fields' designation to public land.
