Home / Environment / Judi Dench Fights To Save Woodland From Water Plant
Judi Dench Fights To Save Woodland From Water Plant
16 Apr
Summary
- Dame Judi Dench urges rejection of water plant expansion plans.
- Expansion requires removing trees from Rotary Wood, planted by children.
- Harrogate Spring Water pledges to plant more trees than removed.
Dame Judi Dench has implored councilors to deny proposals for expanding the Harrogate Spring Water (HSW) bottling facility. The expansion would necessitate the removal of hundreds of trees from Rotary Wood, a significant woodland established by children two decades ago. This community-cherished area has become an integral part of Harrogate's natural landscape and local identity.
HSW, owned by the multinational Danone, contends that the project will generate over 50 new jobs. They commit to creating a new, public woodland with 491 trees and planting an additional 3,000 trees across the district, which they state is six times the number impacted. However, critics, including Dame Joanna Lumley and Sir Jonathon Porritt, argue this contradicts Danone's 'forest positive' claims, as it involves demolishing a thriving community woodland.
Despite widespread public objections, including over 1,000 lodged with North Yorkshire Council, planning officers have recommended approval. The company states they are balancing development and economic growth with environmental care, noting their commitment to sustainable practices. The final decision rests with the planning meeting scheduled for Friday.
