We are asking for your support as we enter the next stage of our fight to protect the Green Belt between Stansted and Birchanger from an inappropriate development of 480 houses.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of our local community, both planning applications were refused by the local planning authority. Hundreds of residents submitted objections, volunteers dedicated countless hours to researching and campaigning, and together we demonstrated why this development is wrong for our villages.

Unfortunately, the fight isn't over.

The developers are continuing to pursue this proposal, and the applications have now progressed to the next stage. To ensure our community has a strong voice, we need expert professional representation. This comes at a significant cost.

Every donation will go towards:

* Specialist planning and legal advice.

* Barrister and advocacy fees.

* Planning consultants and expert witnesses.

* Technical reports and professional evidence.

* Administrative and inquiry costs directly related to opposing the development.

This isn't just about 480 houses. It's about protecting our Green Belt, preserving the identity of our villages, safeguarding local wildlife, and ensuring that infrastructure such as roads, schools, GP surgeries and drainage are not pushed beyond breaking point.

The proposed development is on protected Green Belt land that has not been allocated for development in the Local Plan. We believe there are strong planning reasons why this proposal should continue to be resisted, but local communities are often at a disadvantage when facing well-funded developers. Your donation will help ensure that our case is presented as robustly and professionally as possible.

No donation is too small. Whether you can give £5 or £500, every contribution helps us secure the expertise needed to fight for the future of Stansted and Birchanger.

If you're unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with friends, family and neighbours. Every share helps us reach more people who care about protecting our countryside.

Together we've already achieved so much. With your support, we can continue standing up for our villages and defending the Green Belt for future generations.

Thank you for standing with us.

Birchanger and Stansted Green Belt Preservation Group