Plans to expand the Harrogate Spring Water site in Harrogate have been refused by councillors, following strong local opposition and a lengthy planning process.
The proposal, put forward by owner Danone, would have seen development at the site near Rotary Wood. The plans attracted more than 1,000 objections from residents, alongside a peaceful protest outside the planning meeting. North Yorkshire Council’s planning committee decided to reject the application, though the company retains the right to appeal or submit revised plans in the future. Local MP Tom Gordon welcomed the decision, describing it as a positive outcome for the area while urging caution over future proposals. He said: “Common sense has finally prevailed. Swapping a cherished woodland for a plastic water bottling plant should never have been on the table. "I’m glad that the committee finally rejected it, but it shouldn’t have taken so many signatures, placards and even the voice of Dames Joanna Lumley and Judi Dench, for them to see sense. "We still need to be wary of future attempts to destroy our cherished woodland, today’s decision represents a welcome but temporary reprieve.” However, the company behind the plans expressed disappointment at the outcome and defended the proposed development. Richard Hall, Managing Director of Harrogate Spring Water said: "The challenges UK businesses face with the planning system are well documented and we are disappointed by the committee’s decision. “Our plans have been recommended for approval by the council and we have addressed the two reasons given for deferring this decision at the previous meeting. Throughout this process, we have worked constructively with officers and the local community to strike the right balance between sustainable development and economic growth. “We feel our proposal represents a significant investment in Harrogate – creating over 50 new jobs, delivering an annual £2.3 million boost to the local economy, and a commitment to protecting the local environment. “We are confident in our plans and will carefully consider next steps. Our commitment to investing in the business and community remains unchanged.”
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