CLICK HERE FOR LINKS AND DOCUMENTS ABOUT PLANNING PERMISSION

 

Help Us Protect Millennium Woods

Ainscough Strategic Land (ASL) recently held a public consultation regarding a proposed development of around 335 houses, with vehicle access via Moorway Lane. As a community-led group dedicated to protecting Derby’s green spaces, we are deeply concerned about this proposal — and we are campaigning against it.

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What’s Being Proposed?

The site lies on a vital section of Derby’s Green Wedge — an open space between settlements that prevents urban sprawl and maintains the distinction between countryside and built-up areas. The development would sever connections between adjacent green wedges and encircle Millennium Woods with new housing.

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ASL have submitted an outline planning application for 350 houses. They are exploiting an outdated local plan, and because Derby City Council currently cannot demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, national planning policies (NPPF Paragraph 11d) mean applications may be approved unless negative impacts “significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.”

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See their full proposal at www.moorwaylane-derby.co.uk 

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Why This Matters

Millennium Woods is a sanctuary — not just for wildlife, but for people. It offers peace, biodiversity, and a connection to nature for all ages. This year, newts have been spotted in Millennium Pond, highlighting the ecological importance of the site. Surrounding it with roads and housing would threaten habitats, disrupt vital wildlife corridors, and put countless species at risk.

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Studies show urban development is a leading driver of habitat loss. Once gone, these havens don’t come back.

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What About Traffic & Safety?

Moorway Lane already struggles with traffic, especially during school runs. Adding hundreds of homes will worsen congestion, pose greater risks to children at nearby schools, and add pressure to local infrastructure.

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Why We’re Speaking Out

We believe this proposal puts short-term gain ahead of long-term wellbeing. Green spaces like Millennium Woods and Heatherton Pond:

• Improve air quality

• Reduce noise pollution

• Alleviate stress

• Build community connection

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Once they're gone, our environment — and our future — suffer.

 

Take Action

• Sign our petition to oppose this development: www.change.org/MoorwayLane ​

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Together, we can speak up for nature, protect our community, and keep Littleover and Blagreaves safe and green.

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If you are able to support the costs of this campaign donate here.