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We deal with almost 1000 cases a year assisting communities, groups and individuals in protecting their local spaces and paths in all parts of England and Wales. Can you help us by joining as a member?
We have appointed Stephen Hill as our local correspondent for Kirklees in West Yorkshire.
Stephen Hill
Stephen will keep a close watch on paths, commons, greens and open spaces.
Stephen lives in East Bierley, four miles south-east of Bradford. He has recently retired from a long career in civil engineering, working on many large infrastructure projects in the UK and in the Far East. Most recently he was a programme manager for Highways England.
Says Stephen: ‘I first contacted the Open Spaces Society when I was faced with the threat of a development which would encroach on common land at Bierley Marsh, East Bierley, have an impact on a public footpath, and be on land protected as small open space (in the local plan). Furthermore, it was adjacent to a conservation area and war memorial and close to historical structures (thought to pre-date 1397) and grade II listed buildings. This involvement caused me to realise what a valuable and significant role the society plays in protecting our open spaces and paths.
‘I am delighted to be appointed as a local correspondent for the Open Spaces Society in Kirklees. Throughout my career I have worked in sensitive landscapes, including the Yorkshire Dales National Park and Cumbria, as well as in historic urban areas. I have developed a keen interest in conservation and have managed schemes to alleviate environmental risks and to provide good outcomes for the land and for the public, through creating new access opportunities. It will be rewarding to continue to win improvements in public access through my voluntary role championing paths and green spaces.’
Stephen enjoys the outdoors, is a keen walker and golfer and is treasurer of his local cricket club.