Lib Dem petition to protect land beside Weelsby Woods tops 1,000 signatures

Grassroots campaign qualifies for consideration at Full Council as support continues to grow.

More than 1,100 people have backed calls for land between Weelsby Woods and Pennells Garden Centre to be removed from North East Lincolnshire Council’s emerging Local Plan.

The petition was launched by local resident and Liberal Democrat campaigner Brian Barrett. Support has grown rapidly through doorstep conversations, paper copies and residents sharing the campaign across the area.

It has now exceeded the 1,000 signature requirement to be submitted under the council’s Petition for Debate process. Subject to formal validation and acceptance, campaigners hope it will be heard at the next Full Council meeting on 25th September.

Those supporting the campaign have raised concerns about the potential impact of such a large development on traffic, drainage, wildlife, the surrounding landscape and already stretched local services.

Liberal Democrat campaigner Brian Barrett said, “The response has been remarkable. I knew people were concerned, but reaching more than 1,100 signatures in under a week demonstrates the strength of feeling across our community.

“I have been speaking to residents and collecting signatures on the doorstep, while Nicola and the wider Liberal Democrat team have helped take the campaign to an even broader audience. Residents have also collected petition sheets, delivered leaflets and shared the campaign with their own friends and neighbours.

“This campaign now belongs to every person who has signed it, shared it or helped another resident have their voice heard.

Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Nicola Aisthorpe said, “This is local democracy in action. Brian started a grassroots campaign, residents rallied behind it and our team has worked together to ensure their concerns reach the council chamber.

“Brian will formally submit the petition to the council and, if it is accepted for debate, I will present residents’ case to Full Council and ask every councillor to listen.

“We recognise that new homes are needed, but they must be built in the right places. A development of this scale beside one of Grimsby’s most valued green spaces could have consequences far beyond the site itself.

“The petition remains open. Every additional signature will help demonstrate the full strength of public feeling before councillors consider the future of this land.”

Residents can continue signing and sharing the petition.