Pinewoods Conservation Group to launch appeal to defend Rotary Wood from water brand's expansion

A community charity dedicated to protecting the Pinewoods is to launch a new fundraising appeal following Harrogate Spring Water’s decision to carry on with its expansion plans.

Pinewoods Conservation Group said it remained committed to defending much-loved Rotary Wood and would be seeking to raise extra funds to support its efforts.

Its statement follows Harrogate Spring Water’s confirmation that it will appeal the refusal of its controversial expansion plans, which would see the loss of the community woodland planted by the Rotary Club of Harrogate on Harlow Hill in 2005.

As a major employer in the growing bottled water market, Harrogate Spring Water said it was essential to expand its operation but would plant 3,000 trees to replace those impacted by the development.

But Pinewoods Conservation Group said after years of opposition to the plans across the town, it would be challenging the water brand’s stance throughout the forthcoming appeal which is expected to be heard by the national Planning Inspectorate next year.

It added that it was disappointed that Harrogate Spring Water did not involve any local groups or politicians at the briefing this week.

"We are disappointed to hear that Harrogate Spring Water and its parent company, Danone, have confirmed their intention to appeal North Yorkshire Council’s decision to refuse their expansion plans,” said a spokesperson for Pinewoods Conservation Group.

"Rotary Wood was planted by local people and schoolchildren and has grown into a much-loved community woodland, providing wildlife habitat and a valued space for recreation and wellbeing.

"The claimed economic benefits should not be treated as outweighing these lasting environmental and community costs.

"We urge Harrogate Spring Water and Danone to reconsider this approach, respect the value of this community asset and explore alternatives that protect the woodland

"We are also disappointed that the company chose to brief the local press without communicating directly with the community groups, residents and councillors most affected.

"We will need to raise further funds to help defend Rotary Wood through the appeal and would welcome support from anyone who wants to protect this much-loved community woodland.”