A local group's celebrating after Norfolk county councillors unanimously agreed to approve protective status.
It means the 7-acre open space, known as Harding's Pits Doorstep Green, can't be developed on. And gives the local community the legal right to use it for 'lawful sports and pastimes'.
It was created in 2004 through Countryside Agency funding (now Natural England).
It's been managed with voluntary help from Harding's Pits Community Association (HPCA), encouraging biodiversity and wildlife habitats. Over 100 bird species have now been recorded at the site, nearly 200 plant species, a growing list of invertebrates and a range of mammals, reptiles and amphibians.
Richard Harpham, HPCA Chairman, says, "This is a very significant day for local residents and King’s Lynn as a whole. The site is now a much-loved public open space and, in the past, there has been concern that the site might be lost to development. Those fears are now removed."
Arboricultural Officer Ed Johnson, Cllr de Whalley and Climate Change Manager Ged Greaves at South Lynn Community Orchard
Cllr Michael de Whalley, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity at the Borough Council, says, "Harding’s Pits and the surrounding green spaces are valued places for local people to enjoy and important habitats where nature can flourish.
"Village Green designation gives the land a very high level of statutory protection, helping to safeguard it for generations to come."
The registered Village Green includes Beuys’ Acorns and South Lynn Community Orchard (a further 3 acres).
"This is very welcome news for South Lynn and an important final step in a journey that the community has been pursuing for at least 30 years," Cllr de Walley adds.
“I would like to thank Harding’s Pits Association, Borough Council officers and Norfolk County Council for their commitment and support in making this happen.”
The protection remains with the land even if its ownership changes.
All images Borough Council
