Opposition As Community Centre Considered for Market Harborough Park

More than 700 people have signed a petition opposing the idea of a community centre being built on a park in Market Harborough.

The proposal is one option being considered by Harborough District Council for Burford Green on the southern estate’s Western Avenue.

The council is currently consulting on a range of possible improvements and new uses for the site and says no decisions on any final plans have been made.

Burford Green in Market Harborough

Residents say they would welcome improvements to the area, but want to keep the space entirely green, raising concerns about increased traffic on Western Avenue.

The community centre could feature a café and provide rooms for classes, toddler groups and other activities.

Rebecca Wilson lives on Western Avenue and launched the petition as part of the ‘Save Our Green Space’ campaign:

Rebecca with Harborough MP Neil O’Brien and Conservative councillors.

Other options being considered include an improved children’s play area, sports pitches and changing rooms, a skateboard park, space for events such as outdoor markets and fetes, as well as a community orchard or gardens, nature trails, and seating and picnic areas.

Cabinet lead for Climate Change and Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Darren Woodiwiss, said: “Nothing is set in stone regarding the future of this site. We are exploring various options and want to ensure any plans reflect the needs of the community.

“All feedback received through the consultation process, including the concerns raised in this petition, will be carefully considered in the final vision.”

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien has visited the site with Conservative councillors on Friday and said: “I have been contacted by a number of local residents about this. While I can see the case for new facilities I wonder if putting them on the main green space in this part of town is really the best option?

“Most importantly, we need to see some actual plans and proposals which have been lacking so far. Next week things should get clearer.”

The council is hosting a consultation event on the proposals at the Symington Building in Market Harborough between 10am and 6pm tomorrow (Tuesday), with a community residents’ meeting also taking place at the Royalist pub on Thursday at 6.45pm.