PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE
Upton Heath - 16 April 2026 (Commons/Commons Chamber)

I rise to present a petition about Upton Heath in my constituency and note my personal interest as a regular user and contributor to the fundraiser. Alongside helping to raise almost £110,000 in two weeks via a crowdfunder, the 1,763 petitioners and I note the importance of Upton Heath as a natural asset for the wide range of species that call it home and for those who spend time there for their wellbeing. Heath restoration needs to be prioritised and mineral extraction prevented. I thank everyone who donated to bring the site back into public ownership this week. The petition states:

“The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to take action to secure the preservation of the whole of Upton Heath as a public natural asset.

And the petitioners remain, etc.”

Following is the full text of the petition:

[The petition of residents of the United Kingdom,

Declares that Upton Heath is a vital natural asset to the people of Mid Dorset and North Poole; notes that Upton Heathland is a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation; and further declares that local people oppose the use of Upton Heath for mineral extraction, which could damage biodiversity in the area.

The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to take action to secure the preservation of the whole of Upton Heath as a public natural asset.

And the petitioners remain, etc.]