A LIST of the best-loved green spaces of Buriton is being compiled to safeguard the village’s character, based on feedback from residents.

Every house in the village received a questionnaire with residents asked to identify those areas of natural beauty, wildlife and recreation that mean the most to them.

The results – 25 per cent of the surveys were returned – are being sifted through by a working party and will be sent to the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) by the end of this month. They will then be incorporated into the authority’s Local Plan.

Favoured green spaces being mentioned frequently are: The Links, part of the hidden valley behind Buriton on the Hanger Way to Petersfield; The Clays, which is adjacent to the pond area; Pond Green itself, which for many is the familiar view of Buriton; and the recreation ground.

“Pond Green is the iconic focal point in the village, and draws in visitors,” said villager Jonathan Jones who is on the working party, which is putting together the list.

“We have asked for people to nominate those green spaces that are of importance to them, and to the local community.

“Those which hold significance, such as areas of beauty, tranquility and wildfice, and historical significance, and those like the rec of recreational value. It’s a question of identity and what makes Buriton what it is.”

The survey is part of the ‘Plan B’ project that has been set up in the village to look at all aspects of its future.