A MUCH-loved meadow has been saved after a plan to build homes on the site received hundreds of objections.

The purchase of the meadow at Castle View Terrace in Ludlow by a community interest company set up by local residents, with the support of well-wishers and friends, has been completed, and the meadow will now be maintained and managed for the benefit of the community in perpetuity.

In June 2020, Shropshire Homes bought the land, which has outstanding views to the west across the town and the Teme towards Bringewood and submitted detailed plans for house building on the site.

Locals quickly formed the Save The Meadow Group to campaign against the development.

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Nearly 300 objections from Ludlow and further afield were sent to Shropshire Council planners, who rejected the plans in November 2020.

Although Shropshire Homes immediately appealed the decision to the Government Planning Inspectorate, their case was finally rejected in February 2022.

The inspector’s report highlighted the value of the meadow to residents in this part of Ludlow, and stated how well-regarded it was locally, how greatly it contributed to the health and well-being of the community, and how it provided "one of the few green, open, and meaningful spaces in the immediate locality".

With no future building development possible, Shropshire Homes then offered to sell their land to the community interest company at a reduced price.

Members of the Castle View Meadow Community Interest Company which now owns the field, say they’re relieved and delighted that the sale to the community is now complete.

With the help of volunteers and advice from the charity Caring for God’s Acre, they intend to maintain the land as a bio-diverse wildflower meadow and a haven for wildlife.

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“We’re grateful to the many individuals and organisations who supported us throughout, and particularly to those who have contributed to the purchase and the ongoing upkeep of the meadow," a spokesperson said.

Shropshire Homes director, Andy Sheldon acted to ensure the purchase went through smoothly and that the meadow remained in good condition throughout, the spokesperson said.

"We trust it will continue to be the asset to the community it has been for nearly 150 years.”