Sean Bean Joins Campaign Opposing Sheffield Plans to Build 1,638 Homes on Greenbelt Land

Sean Bean, known for his roles in Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings, has become a prominent figure in the campaign to protect greenbelt land in Handsworth, Sheffield, from housing development plans proposed by the city council. The council's Local Plan includes building over 1,600 homes on greenbelt land, which campaigners argue would lead to loss of 90% of Handsworth's green space, harm public health, overwhelm local infrastructure, and increase pollution. Bean passionately expressed how the greenbelt is vital for mental health and community well-being, recalling his childhood memories in the area and condemning the council's plans to "flog" what he calls "common land." The campaign, Save S13 Greenbelt - The Sapphire McCarthy Campaign, has garnered significant community support, raising £10,000 to fight legal battles and collecting over 4,000 petition signatures. Bean praised the unity and professionalism of the campaigners and vowed to continue fighting against the development, emphasizing the importance of preserving greenery for future generations. The campaign also honors the late Sapphire McCarthy, the original campaign leader, and has received some political support amid concerns about the strain on local services due to existing developments.