Plans to build 500 homes near to York's Askham Bog turned down by Government

City of York Council’s planning committee turned the plans down – but the developer appealed the decision and a planning inquiry was held at the end of last year.

York Outer MP Julian Sturdy has now confirmed the planning inspector sided with the council – and the campaign to stop the development going ahead has been successful.

Sir David Attenborough backed the campaign to help save the nature reserve and called on “all those who love the natural world” to help fight the plans to build homes next to the York bog.

Mr Sturdy said: “In these difficult times I am delighted to report some good news for everyone who cares about the local environment here in York.

“Local people have been unanimous in their opposition to the development proposals near Askham Bog. The campaign has attracted national attention, including from Sir David Attenborough who rightly described the site as ‘irreplaceable’.

“My thanks go to the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust who have been instrumental in informing the debate about the potential ecological damage to the SSSI and to everyone who has made representations at both a local and national level.

“The work to conserve Askham Bog goes on and I hope that this news means it will remain a special place for generations to come.”

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