Neil Hudson on protecting the green belt in Theydon Bois

I have long championed better mental health support, and have worked closely with the 3 Dads Walking (3dadswalking.uk/) in their campaign to secure the inclusion of age-appropriate suicide prevention in the school curriculum. 

It is important we strive for parity of esteem between physical and mental health.

I was delighted to attend the opening of our new Epping Leisure Centre, a fantastic local investment that will support both physical and mental wellbeing.

I also visited Spark, the youth mental health charity at Loughton Youth Centre, where I saw first-hand the positive impact of their youth counselling and mentoring.

Protecting our precious environment in Epping Forest is so important.

Many constituents have contacted me about proposals affecting the green belt and centralised housing targets.

(Image: London Portrait Photoqrapher-David Woolfall)

While we recognise the need for more homes, development must be responsible and in the right places, focused on brownfield sites, and supported by the right infrastructure.

Locally, I have been closely involved in opposition to a proposed development on the green belt near Theydon Bois station, including convening a meeting with the Parish Council and local councillors, and recently attending and speaking at a packed public meeting at the Village Hall.

I have formally raised my concerns with the council and will continue working to protect both our environment and the character of our towns and villages.

As an MP who is a vet by background, it was a pleasure to visit Redwings Ada Cole Horse Sanctuary in Nazeing, where I met staff and the lovely horses, and learned more about their vital work caring for rescued horses.

We discussed issues including biosecurity and the impact of high‑decibel fireworks on animal welfare. I will continue supporting organisations like Redwings in their essential work.

I was delighted to return to King Harold Academy in Waltham Abbey to meet staff and speak with the newly-formed Student Parliament.

I also met with students to discuss key local challenges, including the ongoing concerns around transport links for Waltham Abbey. I know how much this affects access to education, training and wider opportunities, and I will continue working hard to help find a long‑term solution for the community.

As ever, my small team and I are here to help. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch at: neil.hudson.mp@parliament.uk if I can be of assistance, or follow my work at neilhudson.org.uk

• Dr Neil Hudson is Conversative MP for Epping Forest.