The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland has raised serious concerns about a planning application for five detached dwellings on Tullynagardy Wood, a site of long-established woodland in Newtownards.

The proposal was recommended for approval by Ards and North Down Borough Council ahead of a Planning Committee meeting, despite numerous objections. The Trust warns that once this woodland is lost, it cannot be replaced.

Ancient and long-established woodlands are considered among Northern Ireland’s most ecologically valuable natural areas, but they are extremely rare, making up just 0.7% of the landscape. These habitats, which date back to circa 1830, support a rich biodiversity due to the complex ecosystem that has developed over time. The development proposal threatens an irreplaceable habitat that is also mapped on the Northern Ireland Ancient Woodland Inventory. The trees on the site are further protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), which is a legal mechanism used by local authorities to protect trees with significant amenity value. The Woodland Trust argues that the development would harm local wildlife and undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and restore nature, contradicting the Council's own declaration of a Climate Emergency in February 2019.

Paul Armstrong, Public Affairs Manager at the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland, said: "Once woodlands like Tullynagardy Wood are lost, their unique ecosystems and heritage are gone forever. We can plant new trees, but we can never recreate ancient or long-established woodland. It is vital not only that this planning application is refused, but also that legislation is strengthened to better protect our oldest and most significant trees and woodlands from ongoing threats like development."

A local resident, Terry Lyons, expressed his dismay at the Council's recommendation. "As residents in this area, we are shocked and appalled to learn that our local Council are proposing to approve the building of five luxury houses in the Tullynagardy Wood," he said. "What sort of a message, when facing such a crisis, will building houses in an ancient Woodland send out to the people of Ards and North Down, and beyond?"

The Woodland Trust, along with 31 other objectors including Ulster Wildlife and cross-party elected representatives, is urging councillors to reject the application.