About The open spaces society
The Open Spaces Society: Protecting and Preserving Our Natural Heritage
The Open Spaces Society is a non-profit organization that has been working tirelessly for over 150 years to protect and preserve the natural heritage of the United Kingdom. The society was founded in 1865, making it one of the oldest conservation organizations in the world. Its mission is to campaign for stronger protection and opportunities for everyone to enjoy commons, greens, and paths while helping defend open spaces against loss and development.
The society's work is centered around three main areas: protecting common land, safeguarding public rights of way, and promoting access to open spaces. Common land is an important part of our cultural heritage as well as a vital resource for wildlife. The Open Spaces Society works with local communities to ensure that these areas are protected from encroachment by developers or other interests.
Public rights of way are another key area of focus for the society. These paths provide access to some of the most beautiful parts of our countryside, but they are often under threat from neglect or obstruction by landowners. The Open Spaces Society works with local authorities and other organizations to ensure that these paths remain open and accessible.
Finally, promoting access to open spaces is an important part of the society's work. This includes everything from encouraging people to get out into nature more often through organized walks or events, to lobbying government officials on issues related to public access.
One example of this work can be seen in their recent campaign against plans by Network Rail (the UK's national railway infrastructure provider) which would have closed off many footpaths across England & Wales due its safety concerns over level crossings on those footpaths which could lead accidents involving pedestrians crossing railways tracks at level crossings without proper safety measures in place such as barriers or warning signals etc.. The Open Spaces Society worked closely with local communities affected by these closures as well as other organizations such as Ramblers Association & British Horse Society among others to ensure that these paths remained open and accessible.
The Open Spaces Society is also involved in a number of other initiatives aimed at promoting the protection and preservation of our natural heritage. For example, they work with local authorities to develop green spaces in urban areas, promote sustainable land use practices, and support the creation of new national parks.
In addition to its advocacy work, the society also provides a range of services to its members. These include legal advice on issues related to common land or public rights of way, as well as access to a network of volunteers who can help with everything from clearing footpaths to organizing events.
Overall, The Open Spaces Society is an important organization that plays a vital role in protecting and preserving our natural heritage. Its work is essential for ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and diversity of our countryside while also promoting sustainable land use practices that benefit both people and wildlife alike. If you are passionate about conservation or simply want to learn more about this important issue, we encourage you to get involved with The Open Spaces Society today!