Plans to build a retreat for vulnerable people near a nature reserve that inspired The Chronicles of Narnia have faced strong opposition from local residents. The CS Lewis Nature Reserve in Risinghurst, Oxford, was once part of the back garden of C.S. Lewis, author of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.
The Wychwood Foundation has submitted a planning application to construct nine apartments, 22 parking spaces, and an access road alongside the reserve. The retreat would focus on the arts and cater to vulnerable individuals of all ages.
Campaigner Cara Langford, who grew up in the area, said: "It's an honourable idea, but it's just in the wrong place." She added that the development would negatively impact visitors who come for peace, tranquillity, and mental restoration, as well as those who have scattered loved ones' ashes at the site.
Jonathan Beecher, from the Wychwood Foundation, stated that efforts would be made to minimise "any imposing aspects of the building" and that "great care will be taken to preserve the nature reserve, exactly as it is, for generations to come."
The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust described the reserve as a "tranquil woodland and large pond" where Lewis enjoyed wandering while writing his Narnia series, which has sold over 100 million copies worldwide.
