Campaigners battling to stop a popular footpath being closed off to the public have threatened to take legal action.
As reported, the Planning Inspectorate approved the scheme by Bitterne Park Primary School in Southampton to re-route a footpath at the back of the school.
The plans are part of a wider scheme by the school to lease space in Riverside Park.
The footpath diversion was resisted by some residents and there was a petition signed by 200 opposing the scheme.
A campaigner, who asked not to be named, said objectors are considering a judicial review.
She claimed there had been no “fair” public consultation when the land was “taken” by Southampton City Council.
“The people invited to the initial school meeting were “informed” what the council were going to do, there was no consultation of the public
“We were promised a public consultation this never happened, a meeting was held to request a ‘full, open and fair’ public consultation this was organised by FORP (Friends of Riverside Park) at Bitterne Park Social Club.
Councillor for Bitterne Park Ivan White said objectors were entitled to seek a judicial review, can see no grounds for it being granted.
Cllr White said: “I am on record of being in favour of the field and path diversion I do not see any rush out for a judicial review, I think everything has gone through properly.
“There were two public meetings to discuss the field in the first place, there was an enquiry which was incredibly long period of time where everybody was given a chance to air their views.”
Headteacher of Bitterne Park Primary Gerida Montague said: “All of the children, staff, parents and community members who took part in the wide ranging consultation and subsequent public enquiry are looking forwards to having access to safe and clean green space.
“As part of our negotiated Community Use Agreement, we are looking forwards to sharing the space with all community users who have, in the majority, welcomed the opportunity to access a space free from dogs and detritus.
“We live in a democracy and believe that everyone in the community has a right to their opinion. That is why we consulted so widely and openly.
“We will, in the meantime, continue our plans to move forwards with our footpath and fencing so that our children can enjoy the safe green space.”
Article originally published by Daily Echo
