Brent Council's Cabinet has agreed to review proposed perimeter fencing at College Green Open Space following concerns raised by residents about access, character, and historical preservation.
James Hogan, Chair of the College Green Preservation Society, presented a petition to the council opposing the fencing. He highlighted the space's historical significance, established in 1913 by All Souls College Oxford, which comprises land for allotments, scout use, a nursery, and general recreation. The scouts have used the land for 60 years for camping, sports, and summer fetes, and residents are concerned about preserving it as one of the last open spaces in the area.
Concerns were raised that the fencing would restrict access, block views, and negatively impact the area's character. These concerns are amplified by a covenant from All Souls College Oxford, which originally granted the land. The covenant states that nothing on the land can be used for any purpose which shall, or may be, or grow to be, in any way a nuisance, damage, or annoyance to the vendors in the neighbourhood, or which may tend to depreciate or lessen the value of the estates. Petitioners are concerned that any screen would cause immense annoyance and definitely lower the value of the said estates and houses.
Councillor Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Employment and Climate Action, acknowledged the residents' concerns. He confirmed that council officers are undertaking a review of the current fencing arrangements. This review includes considering relevant legislation and Department for Education (DfE) guidance, particularly in relation to safeguarding requirements for children. The DfE guidance is being considered alongside safeguarding requirements for children and relevant legislation.
Specifically, council officers are reviewing the current fencing arrangements, which include a six-foot-eight-inch fence built by the nursery across the middle of the open space. This fence creates a physical and psychological barrier. The open space on the corner has historically been shared by the scouts and the nursery and was never part of the nursery. Petitioners are concerned that the nursery's intention to screen the open space is based on a false premise that the open space is part of the nursery, and that a screen would be a precursor to further development. They believe this would negatively impact the scout group's activities, as the nursery has appropriated a large portion of the scout land.
The findings and recommendations from the review will be shared with all stakeholders, including the scout group and local residents, to determine a way forward. Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of the Council, reaffirmed the commitment to review the issues and engage further with all relevant parties.
