Paradise is a much-loved Nature Reserve, part of the 'green corridor' that runs along the Cam River from Cambridge to Grantchester. It is not large but very accessible and popular. It is a habitat for many different species, some endangered — such as otters, water voles and bats — and is visited every day by hundreds of people, including schools, students, walkers, bird-watchers, researchers and families. 

Queens' College, Cambridge, applied to build more student accommodation next to Paradise in the garden of Owlstone Croft, an existing college residence.

The application was turned down by the City Council in January, as the noise and light from the three-storey blocks on the boundary would have had a serious impact on biodiversity and wildlife within the Reserve. Trees to be felled included a line of poplars that are the flight conduit and foraging ground for bats, including the rare and endangered Barbastelle.

Ecological reports to demonstrate the harm these plans would cause were made possible by the success of the Friends of Paradise fundraising campaign.

The College has Appealed the Council’s decision and a Planning Inspector will now conduct a Public Inquiry to determine whether that decision should stand.

We know there are sound grounds for the Council’s refusal, but we now need to raise funds to pay for Ecology consultants to give evidence and also to secure expert legal advice to be able to make the best case to protect Paradise.

This will not be cheap, and we cannot do it without your help.

Please consider making a donation, large or small, to help protect this unique and well-loved natural asset before it is too late.

Please also tell your friends and neighbours about our Appeal, and urge them to help. Time is short and every contribution counts. Please give generously, and help spread the word.

Thank you.