Derby Development D-I-Y

The Bass Recreation Park Camp in Derby is going strong, with about 20 folk living in to protect public-owned green space from being turned into a shopping centre. As a grade 1 wildlife site, the park gives diverse species such as water and land plants, kingfishers, local walkers and footballers a place in common. Locals have been energetically getting together a petition of 10,000 signatures in objection to such a disposal of public space, and on May 4th marched to the local council to deliver 200 letters of protest. Several events are planned around the campaign - a Planning for Real day in June to come up with a 'people's plan' for the site; a Reclaim the Park and open weekend in early summer; and several benefit gigs. Campaigners are worried that they may be up for eviction now that the council elections are over so help is needed - anything from how to tie a walkway to how to set up a phone tree. Contact the site on 0797 631397 or Nottingham EF! 0115 9585666.