Sir, I was incredulous to see your rather confusing and negative article about BBOWT's CS Lewis nature reserve in Risinghurst (Report, March 31). A site I have known and walked since the 1980s. All the more so, as the editor thought it worthy of being placed on the front page with a sensational and very negative headline (are you thinking of turning The Oxford Times into a tabloid?). Had the journalist taken the time to investigate properly, talk to local people and to investigate Mr Brind's operation further, he would have been able to report a story of a local charity's efforts to involve the local community in helping look after a cherished wildlife site. A site that has seen its share of typical urban problems in recent years (vandalism, motorcycles, fires, rubbish, etc.).
And of a new volunteer group being set up to enable local people get involved and help look after the reserve. In contrast he would also have found that Mr Brind charges his tour groups to visit the reserve and makes no contribution whatsoever to the Wildlife Trust, to help with its management and upkeep.
In addition, Mr Brind's plans (mentioned in the article) to buy the reserve and several surrounding properties in order to develop a CS Lewis visitor centre, have not included consultations with local residents, planners, the wildlife trust; or the city council, who are responsible for the neighbouring Shotover Country Park. Local residents are appalled at his ideas.
M Sanders, Headington
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