Harrogate's climate change coalition says Rotary Wood result shows town backs green measures

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As well as welcoming the decision by Harrogate Borough Council Planning Committee, group of businesses, public sector organisations and voluntary groups set up by the council, now plans to launch a climate action survey of residents.

Speaking on behalf of Harrogate District Climate Change Coalition after the Harrogate Borough Council Planning Committee’s decision to reject revised expansion plans by Harrogate Spring Water, its communications chair Kirsty Hallett said: “It is great to know that councillors on the Harrogate Borough Council Planning Committee and many local residents recognise the natural carbon capture and storage value of Rotary Wood, as well as its wider biodiversity and social benefits.

"This commitment of local people to our environment gives the coalition confidence that we will have support from the community as we promote changes which will help residents and businesses in the district to rapidly decarbonise.

"We know that most of our greenhouse gas emissions need to come to an end within the next ten years.

"The majority of this will be achieved through reducing our demand for fossil fuel energy in our homes, travel and commerce.

"We are publishing a climate action survey for residents later this week, followed by a questionnaire for businesses.

"The responses of local people will help the coalition to ensure that we can helpfully and clearly communicate the information people want to know about how to reduce their carbon footprints.”

Rob Pickering, a senior spokesperson for Harrogate Spring Water, said: "We’re disappointed by the committee’s decision to reject the revision of our planning application.

"We have been able to clearly demonstrate the economic and environmental benefits, as well as outline our commitment to leaving a positive environmental impact.

"At this stage, we will need to consider our options and decide on our next steps.

"However, irrespective of this decision, we would like to reassure our local community that we are committed to keeping them informed and involved with any environmental measures and landscaping developments at the Harrogate Spring Water site in the future."

Group who planted Rotary Wood welcome defeat for Harrogate Spring Water's revised expansion plans

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