Moray Council’s decision to throw out plans to build homes in ancient woodland has been welcomed by nature campaigners.
Developer Ray McDonald wanted to build 12 homes on a site off St Leonards Road in Forres on land near Cathay Care Home.
However, the plans were rejected unanimously by the authority’s planning committee due to concerns about potential flooding and the road network as well as petition launched by Forres Community Woodlands.
Yesterday, the decision was welcomed by Woodland Trust Scotland.
Spokesman George Anderson said: “We believe that ancient woodland is amongst the most precious and biodiverse habitats in the UK and is a finite resource which must be protected from damage, loss and fragmentation.
“This application contravened both national and local planning policy. We strongly applaud the stance taken by councillors.
“Local vigilance has also been crucial – hats off to the community council and Forres Community Woodlands Trust who also stood up to save the wood.”
Councillors rejected the plans unanimously despite the land being labelled an “opportunity site” in the council’s current local development plan.
Decision to throw out homes plan for Moray woodland welcomed by campaigners
