At an Extraordinary Full Council Meeting,14 July 2025, Gillingham Town Council unanimously agreed to the transfer of a significant area of public open space at Wyke in Gillingham.
In a major milestone for the town, the Town Council has agreed to take ownership of a 17.5-acre field. The field will become an area of public open space and will be carefully managed by Gillingham Town Council for Biodiversity Net Gain, ensuring that it not only supports local wildlife but also stands as a valuable green legacy for the people of Gillingham.
The Town Council will be working in partnership with Dorset Wildlife Trust to prepare a long-term ecological management plan for the field, ensuring the land is protected, enhanced, and sensitively cared for as an environmental asset for Gillingham. Mayor of Gillingham, Cllr Fiona Cullen, commented, "This is an exciting step forward for Gillingham, not just in terms of public access but for biodiversity and climate resilience. The transfer of this land ensures that vital habitats will be protected and enhanced, supporting pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. It’s a shining example of how local councils can lead the way in environmental stewardship, securing green space that will flourish for generations to come."
The land will be transferred from BDW Trading Ltd (Barrett David Wilson Homes) as part of the planning obligations for the adjacent development. Assistant Town Clerk, Jill Ezzard, said, ”This agreement represents the first formal step in the land transfer process. Legal work will now be progressed by the Council’s solicitors to complete the transfer. The land will not become the responsibility of the Town Council until legal completion has been finalised.”
The Town Council has also approved the transfer of two new play areas located at Great Barton Hill Road. Together, these spaces will provide a welcome retreat for play, leisure, and connection with nature.
To support the upkeep of these areas, a commuted sum exceeding £336,000 accompanies the transfer.
