BARD Campaign’s Rally Attracts New Eco-town Opponents

MP for Stratford, John Maples, who has been vocal in his opposition to the proposed 6,000-home new town on the edge of his constituency, joined campaigners on Sunday.

Attendees marked the day with an Easter Egg Hunt and Family Quiz as they walked or cycled down the Greenway. The existence of this much loved leisure-route is threatened by developers' plans for a guided bus/tram link to connect the new town with Stratford-upon-Avon.

Postcards to the Government, objecting to the proposals, were signed at both the rally and a roadshow in Stratford town centre - over 400 more cards were completed. Local people also made generous contributions to the BARD Fighting Fund which will be put to good use in the continuing opposition to the new town.

Sir Donald Sinden CBE joined fellow Royal Shakespeare Company Honorary Artist Dame Judi Dench in supporting the BARD Campaign's rally against 'Middle Quinton' and sent this message to Campaigners:   

"I am delighted that so many of Stratford's neighbours are continuing the struggle against the proposed new eco-town on its doorstep. The thought of yet more cars piling into the town is horrendous so thank you for taking steps to protect the historic town of the Man of the Millennium. I support your efforts and wish you well on your walk."

David Bliss, BARD Campaign Chairman said:

"We were pleased to see so many new faces. Increasing numbers from the local community seem to have realised how foolhardy it would be to build a new town on the scale proposed in this location.

"Despite the serious message, Sunday was a day of light relief, especially for all those campaigners who have worked tirelessly in the twelve months since ‘Middle Quinton' was shortlisted. BARD would like to thank its supporters for their continued efforts. Together we will continue to ensure that this site gets the development it can sustain."

ENDS

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