Since my last post on Langdale Wood, I have now gone back to basics and read the actual planning application and then been back for another look at the wood itself. The result – I came to the same conclusion; it would be terribly sad if developers are allowed to build 50 holiday lodges on this site.
The lodges would be interspersed amongst many of the existing trees. The trees themselves would largely survive, but the clearances in between would be ruined. A wood is made up of more than just the trees and the space and flow of air and light between them is just as important to people and the wildlife. No longer will you be able to look through the trees at open spaces and vice versa.
On my previous visit I’d counted 15 bird species in a short space of time. On my last visit I added two more to my tally. A pretty little nuthatch was flitting from branch to branch way above me (excuse no. 1 for dodgy photography!).
A much bigger find was a buzzard, spotted halfway across the wood. I took a few distant shots, then tried creeping (ninja style in my head) closer. Unfortunately dumpy middle aged women it seems are not meant for such covert operations, and the buzzard soon spotted me and took off – so this was the best shot I managed of this one (excuse no. 2 for dodgy photography).
The wood was just as much a delight as before and I still feel it would be an awful shame if this Local Wildlife Site is compromised. So my objection to the proposals has now been added to the council’s website. Planning applications are available for everyone to read on Malvern Council’s website. The application for the erection of the holiday lodges in Langdale Wood, plus all associated documents is available to read at:
https://plan.malvernhills.gov.uk/plandisp.aspx?recno=74832
I would encourage anyone who is interested in Langdale Wood to have a look at the planning application and the various documents and comments that go with it. If you do not agree with the proposals, please voice your objections using the “Make Comments on this Application” button. The consultation period ends on 8th December.
If, having read the planning application and perhaps visited the wood yourself, you also think Langdale is worth saving, you might also like to support the petition:
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/save-langdale-wood
Too Lazy To Weed 
I’m very interested to read about your Wood and to see your photos of some of the citizens. I’m from New Zealand, sadly to far away to help, but please do all you can to save your Wood!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks Liz. It’s lovely to have support from the other side of the world!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It would be a terrible pity to lose it!
LikeLike
I’ve let a few people know. That’s the least I can do. Best wishes, Liz
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi, Liz from Exploringcolour shared your link. Wishing you well with your campaign. I have signed the petition, though live in South Staffs. Sounds like it would be a great loss to the wildlife there, not to mention the beauty of the wood itself.
LikeLike
Hi, thanks for your support – every bit helps. Fingers crossed we convince the planners to say no to the application.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Talk about a corrupt ecology report: Thousands of bat records, great crested newts, badgers, breeding birds, mature trees all in a designated special site for wildlife adjacent to the AONB – conclusion; the proposals will have a positive impact on ecology…
Surely the same project could be built on adjacent farm land and a scheme of long term tree planting and ecology enhancement would create the same effect in years to come. People could still stay and use the woodland for recreation. It’s lazy, short term thinking by the developers and I hope the planners have enough sense to refuse it.
LikeLike