Happiness as two sites become community assets

A councillor says she is "really happy" for residents after two sites were successfully nominated to become assets of community value (ACV).

Cheltenham Borough Council has granted the status to The Bell Inn on Bath Road and Daisybank Field, a green space beneath Leckhampton Hill.

The decision meant that, if either site came up for sale, the local community would be given six months to prepare a bid to buy the land.

The Bell Inn was nominated by a group of residents in January, while Daisybank Field was nominated by Leckhampton with Warden Hill Parish Council in February.

The pub's nomination was supported by a petition with 279 signatures.

Cheltenham Borough Council said residents highlighted the Bell Inn as "a vital hub for social interaction and recreational activities".

The ACV nomination for Daisybank Field, which is protected by Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) status and the Cotswold National Landscape Management Plan, detailed that it was an "easier terrain for children and the elderly" than the main part of Leckhampton Hill.

The council added it "also serves as a cherished spot for sledging during snowy weather".

Deborah Jones, chair of The Bell Inn ACV committee, said: "It highlights the essential role these spaces play in the wellbeing of the community.

"I would like to thank everyone for their support."

Phil Bennett, chair of Leckhampton with Warden Hill Parish Council, said the parish council would work with interested parties preserve Daisybank Field for future generations.

"We must work together to protect areas of Cheltenham that hold value in our communities, as these places bring meaning to our lives, preserve happy memories, and promote the use of shared community spaces," he said.

Ms Atherstone said the efforts of communities in Cheltenham "have been rewarded".

"Not so long ago, I helped my father to protect a much-loved village pub in his local community to become an ACV, so I know first-hand how much these residents care and am really happy for them," she said.

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