Many people in the village will know the Old Recreation Ground – or “Old Rec” as it’s often called. For years it was the village cricket pitch, then parking for the construction of the A31. In more recent history it’s been rented for grazing. Now it’s going to begin a new lease of life.
What began as a conversation between a few local residents has grown into a shared ambition: to create a welcoming, natural green space that the whole community can enjoy. A place for people, wildlife, and future generations; shaped by the village, for the village.
From Idea to Community Movement
The idea was simple. Could we bring the Old Rec back into meaningful use as a community space?
Rather than developing a plan in isolation, the priority from the outset was to involve as many people as possible. Over recent months, residents have been invited to share their thoughts through a community survey, helping to shape what the space could become.
Alongside this, several wildlife surveys and a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) were carried out to better understand the existing habitat and how any future plans could support and enhance nature conservation.
The response has been incredibly encouraging. There is a clear appetite within the village for a space that balances access with nature. Somewhere to walk, learn, volunteer, and connect.
Following the consultation process and review of the findings, Bentley Parish Council has given its approval for the project to move forward.
This means we can now begin developing a longer-term plan for the site and start turning ideas into reality.
Introducing Bentley Green
As part of this new chapter, the community was also invited to help choose a new name for the site.
Through a poll of everyone who completed the consultation survey, the name Bentley Green was selected.
This was the original name for the land dating back to before the 1860s when the site was first enclosed. Renaming the site Bentley Green restores a piece of the parish’s heritage and connects the new space to its deep historical roots, while signalling a fresh start with a renewed purpose.
A Shared Vision
The vision for Bentley Green is to create a community orchard and nature space that evolves over time.
This will include:
- A mixed orchard of fruit trees, with space to grow and expand
- Areas managed to encourage wildlife and biodiversity
- Accessible paths for walking and quiet enjoyment
- Opportunities for education, particularly with local schools and groups
- A place for volunteering, learning new skills, and bringing people together
Importantly, this is not about a fixed, finished project delivered in a few years. It is about creating a space that develops naturally, shaped by the community and the environment.
How You Can Get Involved
This is a community-led project, and its success depends on local involvement.
There will be opportunities to:
- Join volunteer working groups
- Share skills or experience
- Help shape decisions as part of the steering group
- Support fundraising and future activities
If you would like to be involved, the first step is to join the mailing list, where updates, meeting invitations, and opportunities to take part will be shared.
You can sign up here: http://eepurl.com/gyKLsX
Bentley Green is at the beginning of its journey. We look forward to building it together.