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Adam backs campaign to save Slochy woodland


By Alan Beresford

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THE campaign to prevent a housing develoment on the site of the former Portessie railway station has been backed by a local MSP.

Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Karen Adam has backed the Slochy woodlands campaigners.
Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Karen Adam has backed the Slochy woodlands campaigners.

Outrage from many quarters greeted the approval of plans to built seven houses in an area which supports a variety of wildlife and flora, heralding the creation of the Slochy Woodland Preservation Group.

The new MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, Karen Adam, has expressed her sympathy for the campaigners trying to save the woodland.

The campaign group held a people’s protest on Wednesday evening where it is believed well over 100 people turned up to support saving the woodlands.

Ms Adam said: “The Slochy woodlands is a wildlife haven for locals with huge mental health and wellbeing benefits.

"The area is not only rich with biodiversity and wildlife but acts as a popular spot for locals to spend time, cycle through, and for children to play in.

“I understand the need for local development, however I am disappointed, as there are plenty of other areas that could have been chosen with community support. The group feel this development is destroying the natural ecosystem and woodlands.

“The campaign to save Slochy Woodlands has already had widespread support, with the petition already receiving more than 5500 signatures.

“The eco report that was put to councillors reported that there were no signs of significant life, a claim which locals say is inaccurate. In a time where we are much more aware of our commitments to our natural environment I would hope that we place a high priority on our ecosystems and climate goals by consistently recording and keeping up to date information.”

Wildlife TV presenter and conservationist, Chris Packham stated online: “I don't believe for a second that this area is of 'low conservation value'.

"From what I can see it's the one wooded area in the village. We must start finding new solutions to developing which doesn't result in woods being decimated for seven houses.”


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