www.greatousevalleytrust.org.uk

Media Release 23 JUNE 2020

THIRD RIVER CROSSING PLAN WITHDRAWN

The Great Ouse Valley Trust gives thanks for a common sense decision and for the support for its campaign

The Great Ouse Valley Trust welcomes the great news that the Combined Authority’s plans for a third river crossing in the landscape between St Ives and Huntingdon have been withdrawn. Our Trustees and all our Partner Members have worked tirelessly to get the road removed from the Mayor’s plans. Now we have succeeded there are many people and groups to thank. As Trustee Helen Boothman said as she walked her dog this morning musing on the day’s news, ‘Now the meadows can breathe a sigh of relief’.

We would also like to give credit to the Authority that they have listened to our arguments and responded.

We can now look forward to a new era where the real value of the Great Ouse Valley to the economy of the County is recognised. Its importance for the environment and for physical and mental health is obvious to everyone, but if we want to attract visitors, new high-tech businesses and the brightest and best to come and live here, we have to protect the things that make this area so special. First amongst these is the landscape of the Great Ouse Valley. New roads may sometimes be essential for the national benefit but when we look at new residential areas and work places we must plan for better transport solutions that don’t destroy our diminishing places of peace and tranquility.

Tranquility from a Great Ouse backwater .    Photograph from GOVT

Contacts for media editors use only:

Graham Campbell – tel 01480 394933/07952 754763

Reference

What is the Great Ouse Valley Trust?

The Great Ouse Valley Trust (GOVT) is a charity formed in October 2018 with the charitable objective:

“To promote for public benefit the conservation, restoration, and enjoyment of the landscape, wildlife and heritage of the Great Ouse Valley and environs in the county of Cambridgeshire.”

Members include local councils, the local Wildlife Trust, individuals and environmental groups.

The Trust’s Vision recognises the Great Ouse Valley is a fantastic place to live and visit, with off the beaten track areas to explore by foot, cycle or horse. The area is nationally recognised and valued for its wildlife, leisure, natural and heritage attractions which contribute to the county’s natural green spaces. This is achieved by GOVT being the catalyst which brings national organisations, local communities and individual people together for the common good.

GOVT’s mission covers:

•  Enhancement of landscape – increased biodiversity
•  Promotion - sense of place, tourism and local economy, health benefits
•  Protection – active conservation and campaigning
•  Access for all – residents and visitors, disabled
•  Partnerships and alliances: groups working together
•  Increased engagement – education, volunteering