The area around Dungeon Lane near Speke, Liverpool, which was such an inspiration for Paul McCartney (‘I can gauge John’s reaction: that’s good, stick that in’: Paul McCartney on how old bandmates – and Oasis – inspired his nostalgic new album, 29 May), provides a good example of what is happening to our green spaces and natural habitats. In 2019, in spite of local protests, Dungeon Lane was closed permanently, when the perimeter fence of Liverpool airport was extended.
Landowners are obstructing traditional rights of way. The use of pesticides has reduced the numbers of butterflies and bees. The coastal path has fallen into disrepair. Aircraft exhaust fumes pollute the air. Shamefully, it has been left to voluntary organisations – such as Save Oglet Shore – and academics to monitor this crisis. Research by Liverpool John Moores University has exposed the extraordinary build-up of Pfas (forever chemicals) on the shore.
