Readers’ Letters: Are we so blinded by corporate pressure that we can’t defend Rotary Wood?

Readers’ Letters is a free weekly column giving you the chance to have your say on issues affecting the Harrogate district. It is an opinion column and does not reflect the views of the Stray Ferret. Send your views to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk.

This letter came into our inbox after Harrogate Spring Water submitted its final Rotary Wood expansion plan earlier this month. The ongoing scheme has proved one of the most contested in the area.

It’s a given all applications must be considered, however, I am deeply concerned as a local resident as to why this application has been resubmitted after prior rejection. What possible reason would Danone have to believe their application would be approved this time round? A good investigative journalist might ask, 'what’s changed?'. And most importantly, who stands to benefit? Because it certainly isn’t the town or its residents.

Beyond the wildly obvious objections I share with our MP and the rest of the concerned residents in Harrogate, there is an obvious angle to this story around who - beyond a foreign corporate entity - stands to benefit from this (ultimately unnecessary) expansion.

Are we so blinded by corporate pressure, greed and theoretical promises of offsetting (which is a flawed concept in itself, designed by corporate entities to enable environmental destruction) that we cannot stand up and defend the very existence of our own land?

50+ promised local jobs, a few trees planted, a flawed approach to offsetting and the illusion of vague ‘increased investment’ does not equate to the justification of the destruction of a beautiful woodland at the heart of our town.

There is justifiable anger on this topic because we are not talking about derelict, barren land. We are talking about the home of wildlife, nature and memories for many people. To be replaced with a plastic bottle factory - a product in itself that may well become redundant in the not so distant future. If this goes ahead, questions must be asked and accountability must be upheld.

Amy Monkman, Harrogate 

The end of HAPARA will leave a ‘massive void’ in the community

This letter followed news of the Harlow and Pannal Ash Residents Association being wound up at the end of this year. It came after no volunteers stood for key roles that became available on the committee. 

I am extremely saddened to hear that Harlow and Pannal Ash Residents Association (HAPARA) will cease to exist at the end of 2024.

Over the years, HAPARA have been instrumental – and collaborators – in aiding and effecting positive change, continuity and support for the Harlow Hill Community.

HAPARA, in my opinion, have acted in the way a committed parish council would. They received no renumeration for their tireless hard work and commitment.

I would like to say not only as the proud councillor of Harlow Hill and St George's, but also as a near lifelong resident of Harlow Hill, a huge thank you to all who have represented HAPARA.

When a community association such as this ceases to exist, it can leave a massive void with people wandering where they can turn.

Please be assured that as a proud ‘HarlowHillian’ and your councillor, I will continue to serve and represent everyone.

Next year will see the creation of Harrogate Town Council, where you have the chance to elect someone who will also hopefully fill the void left.

Many thanks to everyone and HAPARA.

Councillor Mike Schofield, an independent for the Harlow Hill and St George’s ward

Do you have an opinion on the Harrogate district? Email us at letters@thestrayferret.co.uk. Please include your name and approximate location details. Limit your letters to 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

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