24/10/22 PRESS RELEASE - SHINING THE LIGHT ON LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH JEWEL - BALDERTON LAKE
Balderton and Newark residents will gather at twilight on the eve of Halloween at Balderton Lake, holding candles and lanterns in a show of unity to protect the lake's peace and tranquillity from kayaks.
Since Balderton Parish Council weakened its bylaws to allow YMCA Newark and Sherwood to put kayaks on the lake, campaigners and residents have been concerned about the plan's environmental impact alongside disrupting the last remaining wild and tranquil space in Balderton.
“So many residents have shared their stories with us on how fundamental the lake is to their mental health. A lot of people need and use this space just as it is,” said Jane Buxton, SWAN campaigner.
“People come here to spend intimate time with their family, connect with lost loved ones or to rebalance amongst the strains of the 21st century. Our event aims to give these people a safe platform to come and show how important the lake is to our emotional well-being.”
On September 7, a second petition was handed into Balderton Parish Council, with almost 4,000 signatures asking them to revoke their licence to the YMCA. Balderton Parish Council has still not confirmed a date to debate the petition.
The local community group, SWAN (Saving Wildlife and Nature), is inviting neighbours and lake visitors to join them in honouring the importance of the lake’s effect on our mental health by bringing a candle or lantern and joining in our peaceful vigil.
Electronic, battery-operated or solar-powered are encouraged. Traditional types of candles are allowed but will be the responsibility of the individual bringing them. Fancy dress is optional, with prizes available for the best dressed.
“We now have a deep understanding of the positive physical and mental health benefits that urban green spaces play for people - especially children and the elderly,” says Emma Oldham, Conservation Biologist.
“Having access to wild places and wildlife shouldn’t be a privilege, but a part of everyday life. We know how much people treasure time spent at Balderton Lake, without the need of being on a boat. It is free, and for everyone to enjoy. It should be kept that way.”
The group has organised several peaceful community protests and events around Balderton, which have seen families blowing bubbles, embarking on a rock treasure hunt and contributing to community wildlife artwork. Each event has attracted huge crowds of local people, who are desperate for the lake to be left alone.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
For further details, please contact:
Emma Oldham (07939180489)
Karen Callingham (07736966398)
SWAN’s petition can be accessed here: Ban Boats on Balderton’s Beauty Spot
NSDC ranks 12th from the bottom out of 350 councils on environmental matters.
Newark only has 19.04sqm of green provision per person - just above that of London at 18.96sqm.
53 bird species and 15 mammal species have now been documented by residents and the YMCA using Balderton Lake.
Exposure to green space benefits health by reducing mortality and morbidity from chronic diseases, improving mental health and pregnancy outcomes, and reducing obesity (EEA, 2020).
The World Health Organization recommends that all people reside within 300m of green space.
