The constraints point to an opportunity
Serious, documented flood risk. A single access road that floods. Over 1,600 protected trees. A rewilding valley ecosystem. Source Protection Zone I groundwater. A Main River running through the centre of the site.
Every one of these factors is an obstacle to housing. Together, they describe a site that is almost uniquely well-suited to be something the whole of Potters Bar could benefit from for generations: green space, community facilities, ecological restoration, and active travel.
Our position has matured. When the campaign began, we put forward a specific vision for the site. As the formal objection process has progressed, we have moved to a broader position: the eventual use of this site should be decided by and for the community — not imposed by a developer. What follows is a range of possibilities, all consistent with planning policy, all working with the site's character rather than against it.
Possible uses — working with the site's character
National planning policy explicitly supports positive uses of Green Belt land. Any one of these, or a combination, could be pursued through the Local Plan process.
Country Park
Walking and cycling routes through the rewilding valley, connected to National Cycle Route 12 — accessible green space for the whole town.
Sports Pitches
Football, cricket, bowls — addressing Sport England's longstanding concern about the loss of the golf course and the shortage of outdoor sport provision.
Ecological Reserve
Six years of rewilding have transformed the site. A formal biodiversity reserve would build on that and help Hertsmere meet its net gain obligations.
Active Travel
Safe, off-road routes between residential neighbourhoods and National Cycle Route 12 — reducing car dependency and improving health for all ages.
Allotments
Waiting lists are long across Hertsmere. The open ground away from the flood valley could accommodate new allotment provision at meaningful scale.
Community Hub
The existing clubhouse footprint could host a café, community hall, or changing facilities — compatible with Green Belt policy, no new major building needed.
Brook Restoration
Restoring Potters Bar Brook's valley corridor could improve flood attenuation, water quality, and biodiversity — with benefits stretching beyond the site.
These are possibilities, not a fixed plan. The community should decide.
Planning policy supports this approach
National planning policy is not just about where housing goes. It actively requires local authorities to plan positively for outdoor sport, recreation, community facilities, and biodiversity in the Green Belt. Uses that preserve openness and serve community needs are not a fallback — they are a legitimate and supported outcome.
"National planning policy supports exactly this kind of positive use of Green Belt land. Local authorities are required to plan positively for outdoor sport, recreation, community facilities and biodiversity in the Green Belt."
The key point: Whatever the eventual use, it should be decided through the Local Plan process — a democratic, evidence-based system that allows community input. The Regulation 18 consultation is that moment. Your representation matters.
Help shape what happens to this site
The Local Plan consultation is open now. Your representation on HPBA SA13 can include your views on what this site should be used for — not just what it shouldn't.
Submit your representation →