To a swindon councillor

Considering the old golf course in light of Highworth’s history

Those wishing to build on Highworth’s old golf course are effectively contributing to the destruction of our English heritage. 

Highworth has a history going back well over eight hundred years. There is a conservation area in the centre of the town which reflects the efforts to preserve Highworth's past history. There is a wonderful thirteen century stone built church erected on the very top of the hill that Highworth is built on. Within easy walking distance of the Highworth town centre there is this old golf course which has been allowed to grow wild, where people from the surrounding areas are free to roam. This is not possible on open farm land which has, by necessity, restrictions on such activities.

Highworth is a picturesque medieval market town, a little gem to be cared for and treasured for future generations. It is part of English history. 

The old golf course is not just another piece of wasteland. Having originally been designed as a golf course it was landscaped. Carefully chosen trees were strategically positioned while others were planted in groups to create little spinnies as well as more thickly wooded areas. We are now presented with a magnificent range of mature trees of different types, sizes, shapes and colours. There are spaces between these wooded areas which accommodated the old golf fairways. At different times of the year these spaces are carpeted with an array of different coloured wild flowers and grasses. During the latter part of the year the autumn colours are simply breathtaking. 

The gentle undulating, rolling countryside allows vistas across the whole area with a small stream running through the lower levels. A large increase in insects and butterflies has been recorded with more and more birds being attracted to this open, wild landscape. In its present state it has become a little scenic and wildlife gem for those who live in the local urban areas.

The proposed plans are effectively planning to destroy it and simply add it to the ever

increasing urban sprawl. 

It is recognised that those suffering from depression and other stress related conditions benefit hugely by having access to free open countryside. How many small towns can claim an area where nature has been allowed to take over, within a short walk of the very town centre. This has created a stunning example of the beauty of the English countryside. It will be a terrible crime to destroy it! 

I beseech those in authority not to destroy such a beautiful natural asset, not just for local residents and future generations but for the country of England as a whole. It is part of our heritage.

Peter James.