Harrogate Borough Council has removed the plastic grass from planters on Cambridge Street after a huge backlash.
Workers have already taken out the fake turf as the council considers what to do next to brighten up the town centre. It said yesterday it hoped to have something vibrant in place by June.
Last night’s council apology prompted a big reaction on social media. Many praised the council for holding its hand up and admitting it had made a mistake while others called for it to collaborate more with people and groups to prevent a repeat.
Sarah Gibbs, an environmental campaigner who set up a petition calling for the removal of the fake grass, told the Stray Ferret:
“It’s a victory for the people. This change shows that people power really does work.
“I was really pleased when I saw the council’s second apology. This is a real one this this time because they are actually doing something about it.
“The petition still stands though. It also called for the council to work with schools, businesses and others to manage the planters.”
So far, in just under two days, her petition has attracted about 500 signatures.
Read more:
- Harrogate council agrees to remove plastic grass
- Extinction Rebellion replaces fake grass with flowers in Harrogate
Shan Oakes, a spokesperson for the Green Party in Harrogate, said:
“It’s good that the council have apologised and accepted that they had done something wrong.
“I just hope the council will review its policy on biodiversity going forward, it needs to change its whole outlook.
“There should be a people’s assembly. If the council collaborated with people then this would have been avoided.”
How it looked before the plastic grass was removed.
While many called over the last two weeks for the council to remove the astro turf, Extinction Rebellion Harrogate took direct action last week when it replaced the plastic grass with plants in one of the raised beds.
Jess Thompson, who took part in the protest, told the Stray Ferret;
“We are pleased with the council’s apology. It is a positive step but there is still a way to go.
“Biodiversity needs to be the priority, not aesthetics. I do not know how much would have been done if we did not take action.
“Hopefully the council will use this as an opportunity. Hopefully the people will also continue to hold those in power accountable.”
