In November 2019 we released a statement in response to the decision by Rotherham Council’s Planning Board to approve the development of an alternative motorway service station at Junction 33 of the M1. You can read our response here.
- In June 2019 we published a press release about the carpet of bluebells at the site – an indicator species of ancient woodland – and reiterated our opposition to the planning application.
- Commented on and continued to monitor progress of the planning application for an alternative motorway service station at Junction 33 of the M1
- Held a public rally outside Sheffield Town Hall with over 300 attendees in March 2017
- Commented on the pre-application consultation
- Met the applicant’s ecologists on site to hear about their proposals and the reasons for their approach
- Met the applicant to discuss the proposal and the mitigation package. This was with the aim of securing an improved compensation package for the loss of biodiversity and access to green space for local people should our objection to the application fail.
- Liaised with local wildlife and planning experts from across the city to co-ordinate and submit a detailed objection to the planning application. This was followed by additional comments as the applicants provided more information.
- Respond to a further planning consultation in autumn 2015 and continue to engage with the process through to Planning Committee and beyond, as required.
- Continue to update and engage the public, our members, local woodland experts and the local MP through the media and public events
- Working in partnership with other organisations opposing the scheme – including the Woodland Trust and Cowley Resident’s Action Group (CRAG)
- Supporting CRAG in their application to designate Smithy Wood as a Village Green.