A group of Ealing environmental organizations has come together to oppose a plan to erect a 17.5-metre telecoms mast on Brentham Meadows, a cherished green space in our community. The Brent River Park charity, Ealing Wildlife Group, Ealing Parks Foundation, and Brentham Allotment Gardens Society are urging Ealing residents to voice their objections to the proposal by MBNL, a collaboration between EE and Three, before the consultation deadline on 14 October.

The proposed site, located within a 9.5-acre meadow at the northern end of Brent River Park, is not only Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) but also a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), offering it the same level of protection as Green Belt land. The construction of the mast would involve cutting down a mature oak tree with centuries of life ahead of it and clearing surrounding vegetation.

Katie Boyles from the Brent River Park charity expressed her disbelief at the idea of placing such an industrial structure in a valued community green space. She highlighted how this proposal contradicts planning policies aimed at safeguarding precious habitats. Similarly, Sean McCormack of Ealing Wildlife Group criticized the blatant disregard for nature and urged the council to reject the proposal.

Opponents argue that the plan violates the biodiversity net gain requirement of the Environment Act 2021 and poses a threat to a meadow habitat that has seen a 98% decline in the UK since World War II. They also raise concerns about the impact on bat foraging routes, bird nesting areas, and the increased flood risk in the functional floodplain of Brent River Park.

Jane Fernley, chair of Ealing Parks Foundation, emphasized the importance of Brentham Meadows as a beloved green space essential for local wildlife and community well-being. Robin John of Brentham Allotment Gardens Society pointed out that the claim of no alternative sites for the mast is unfounded, considering the existence of a telecom mast on the old Westworld building north of A40, which is a brownfield site.

Residents of Ealing have until 14 October to submit their objections through the Ealing Council’s planning portal. The approval of this proposal could set a dangerous precedent for development on protected open land throughout London. It’s crucial for our community to come together and protect our green spaces for future generations.