Harpenden: Kinsbourne Green Common community purchase agreed

Kinsbourne Green Common was set to be sold at an Allsops auction in London tomorrow (Thursday, September 21).

A number of residents expressed concerns over the sale, with many hoping that the common would be maintained for the good of the community.

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Now, a new charity named 'The Friends of Kinsbourne Green Common' has been formed and the land's owners have agreed to a sale.

The common has been owned by the same family for almost 50 years, and currently homes a Scout Hut, two car parks and an underground pipeline.

'The Friends of Kinsbourne Green Common' will be structured so that all local residents can become members and have their say in how the site is cared for.

The charity - formed by Sue Archer, Marcus Whitehead and Tim Wright - aims to maintain the 35.12-acre land, and work to further improve its biodiversity and accessibility for all.

Funds must now be "urgently" raised by the end of November for the sale to be completed, and interested parties are urged to donate or volunteer.

The current owners of the land said: "We are delighted to be handing over the stewardship of Kinsbourne Green Common to such an exciting newly formed community group, who are interested in protecting and maintaining it on behalf of the local community, so that it can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Kate Sheffield, chair of Harpenden Rural Parish Council added: "I am delighted to hear that this much-loved open space, cherished by the local community will be passed into the hands of a community charity.

"I have been overwhelmed by the positivity and team spirit shown by local residents over the past few weeks, and am so glad that the owners have decided to sell to The Friends of Kinsbourne Green Common.

"This is something we should all celebrate, as I believe it will help to bring our wonderful community even closer together."

To find out more about donating or volunteering, go to www.kinsbournegreencommon.org.uk.