Persimmon Homes are withdrawing plans to build 133 homes opposite Gosforth Nature Reserve
Following news that Persimmon Homes had submitted a new application to build 133 homes on land opposite Gosforth Nature Reserve, 2021 saw thousands of local people come together to defend this precious wild space. By submitting almost 3,000 new objections to North Tyneside Council, NHSN members, concerned residents and naturalists across the North East joined NHSN and local partners in sending a clear message that any development close to the reserve would be unacceptable.
Now, thanks to your amazing support, Persimmon Homes have withdrawn plans to build near the reserve, ensuring that this wonderful place remains protected for now. A full copy of their withdrawal notice can be found here.
Following detailed consultee comments received on the 28h November 2021, Persimmon Homes would like to formally request that the above application is withdrawn and not proceed further for a decision by North Tyneside Planning Committee.
It is evident that the application in its current form is not acceptable to the Council and local Stakeholders and Persimmon are not looking to progress this any further.
Samuel Kenny, Senior Development Planner, Persimmon Homes
Across the UK and right here in the North East, nature faces a climate and ecological emergency on an unprecedented scale. Never has it been more important to protect important sites such as this which not only provide a home to rare and threatened wildlife but provide local people with a chance to learn about and connect with the natural world. Your response to this planning application shows clearly that you care deeply for North East nature.
On behalf of Gosforth Nature Reserve’s wildlife , I cannot thank you enough helping protect this special place. By objecting to this application, you have shown how much local wildlife and greenspace means to you and helped protect Newcastle’s oldest wildlife haven.
Sites such as Gosforth Nature Reserve are vital in combatting the climate and ecological emergency, giving refuge to wildlife, and providing people with the opportunity to experience the natural world.
By helping stop this application, you have demonstrated the amazing things that can be achieved when local people come together to protect the natural world.
Clare Freeman, NHSN Director
Persimmon’s withdrawal from the land surrounding Gosforth Nature Reserve is good news but it is important that we do not become complacent. History has shown that applications such as this have a habitat of returning and NHSN remains strongly opposed to any further application that would impact Gosforth Nature Reserve, its Special Site of Scientific Interest, and the wildlife that calls the site home.
Should further applications be submitted, we will keep members updated and we hope you will join us once again in saying no to Persimmon.
