Stansted Airport College students tell MPs to put parks and play areas at the centre of housebuilding
Two Stansted Airport College students gave MPs their views on housebuilding and protecting the environment.
The participation of Rachel and Penny in the House of Commons event was prompted by the Government’s pledge to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years.
Westminster’s environmental audit committee is conducting an inquiry into environmental sustainability and housing growth. The aim is to explore how much-needed housing can be delivered without being detrimental to nature.
Collaborating with representatives of four other colleges and schools, the Stansted Airport College duo discussed the importance they place on housing and the environment, and what the Government should be thinking about.
They came up with designs for the infrastructure needed to support new homes and nature in towns. They then presented their findings to committee members.
Students told the MPs that spaces like leisure centres and parks can help build a sense of community. They said outdoor green spaces, such as parks and playgrounds, were vital to encourage children to be active in the fresh air.
Ruth Gray, deputy head of centre at Stansted Airport College, said: “This experience provided a valuable opportunity for young people to have their voices heard and their perspectives acknowledged. We are especially grateful for the warm welcome extended by the chair and his team.”
Environmental audit committee chair Toby Perkins, Labour MP for Chesterfield, said: “Our young people will feel the brunt of the housing, nature and climate crises as they grow up, potentially struggling to get on the housing ladder and where the impacts of climate change will feel more severe. It was only fitting that they support our inquiry into this important topic.
“I would like to thank the students from Stansted Airport College for their invaluable contribution to our inquiry, which will result in a report to the Government as to how ministers can balance the needs of our precious natural environment and make sure we have enough homes in our country.”
The other participants were Carmel College, St Helens; Laurus Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle Hulme; Paulet High School, Burton-on-Trent; and St Thomas More School, Nuneaton.
