Residents of Quinton are expressing strong concerns over plans to sell a cherished tree-lined recreation space, often described as an ‘oasis of calm’, slated for auction this September by the Calthorpe Estate.
Located off Sir Richard’s Drive, the park is a vital green lung for the community, frequently enjoyed by walkers, joggers, local groups, and pupils from Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School. Towering oak, sycamore, fir, ash, and willow trees define this tranquil haven, offering a rare, peaceful retreat for physical activity and relaxation.
The planned sale forms part of Calthorpe Estate’s broader strategy to divest around 200 land plots over the coming years. This has left many worried that the open space could undergo significant changes, altering its character and accessibility.
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Residents have organised a meeting on July 15 at 6 pm on the green, seeking collaborative ways to protect this invaluable community asset.
Longtime local Roger Chester, 75, living just steps away, described the space as “the lungs of the area” and likened it to “the equivalent of a private gated estate in London,” highlighting its critical role in community life where children play football and cricket.
Sally Newton, who helps maintain the area through litter picking, and her husband Mark, both 67, shared fond memories of their children enjoying sledging and building snowmen in the park. Sally emphasized its benefits for wellness: “People do tai chi and meditate here.” Mark added, “It’s an oasis of calm where you can hear tawny owls, bats, and woodpeckers.”
Elderly resident Clare Saundercock, 79, expressed deep emotional attachment: “I can’t bear the thought of losing it.”
Local councillors, including Sam Forsyth and Dr Nagu Penakacherla, are actively opposing the sale, with Penakacherla circulating a petition to preserve the space.
MP Preet Gill voiced her support for residents’ efforts, confirming that Calthorpe Estates has agreed to offer the community the first chance to buy the land before an auction proceeds. She is facilitating discussions aimed at securing a successful community purchase, drawing on her previous experience in safeguarding local green spaces.
Calthorpe Estates, a property investor with over 300 years of history in Edgbaston, clarified its decision to sell certain residential land parcels following recent legislative changes. The company has committed to a transparent and structured sales process, providing residents opportunities to purchase plots before public auctions. A trial auction earlier this year saw all seven lots offered to residents sold successfully.
The estate reiterated its dedication to maintaining Edgbaston as a vibrant, exceptional area and promised ongoing communication through multiple channels to ensure all stakeholders remain informed.
While the community grapples with the uncertainty, efforts to protect this beloved green space illustrate a powerful local commitment to preserving the unique character and well-being of Quinton for generations to come.