A PETITION to open a debate on the future of Ealing’s green spaces has been started by the council’s opposition Liberal Democrat group.

The Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land will be discussed at a meeting in Ealing Town Hall on Thursday, September 21, 7pm.

Residents anxious about the issue can attend the Local Development Plan Advisory Committee.  Click here for more information.

A Lib Dem spokesperson said re-designations of open land in the borough are not yet confirmed and the party is keen that residents are actively engaged in consultation.

“We are keen the local plan does not become a ‘blank cheque’ for developers at the expense of residents,” said a statement.   

Lib Dems have begun a petition, which needs 1,500 signatures to spark a town hall debate. See www.ealinglibdems.org.uk/openspaces

It follows a visit to Grove Farm, North Greenford - one of the open spaces believed to be under threat - by Lib Dem deputy leader Cllr Gary Busuttil. He joined a clear-up with litter picking group Lager Can.

“Development, including much-needed genuinely affordable housing, must be on brownfield sites,” said the spokesperson.