Andrew Mitchell MP has met with representatives from Natural England West Midlands to ensure they continue to support Sutton Coldfield’s high quality green spaces and natural environment. Andrew met with Janette Ward, Natural England’s recently appointed Regional Director for the West Midlands, and Andrew Hearle, Natural England’s Local Partnerships Team Manager. Andrew gave strong support to Natural England’s funding for Sutton Park’s National Nature Reserve which will help restore its special heathland habitat and discussed the importance of Sutton’s two Local Nature Reserves – Plantsbrook Reservoir and Hill Hook – to the network of natural green space within the town. Sutton’s MP was particularly pleased to hear about Natural England’s work to increase community engagement within the Park. Recently, seven out of eight schools in Sutton joined a Natural England and Ordnance Survey initiative which offered free maps to Year 7 school children helping them learn to map read in Sutton Park. Andrew Mitchell MP said, “We are very fortunate to have such magnificent green spaces on our doorsteps in Sutton. Such areas are the lungs of our town as well as sustaining ecological diversity and contributing something distinctive and positive to the quality of life of individuals and our community. “I was pleased to hear that Natural England are working hard to conserve and improve Sutton’s green spaces as well as encourage local health groups and schools to take full advantage of the outdoors.” Photo: Andrew Mitchell MP with Janette Ward, Natural England’s Regional Director for the West Midlands and Andrew Hearle, Natural England’s Local Partnerships Team Manager.