Tom Gordon MP opposes Harrogate Spring Water’s expansion plans and says they must ‘go further’ in supporting the environment.
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP, Tom Gordon, has expressed concern and opposition to Harrogate Spring Water’s updated plans to expand their site, saying that if the expansion is granted permission it should go ‘above and beyond’ in replacing the trees that will be felled if the expansion project goes ahead.
Harrogate Spring Water has released a revised plan for an expansion of their site. The new plan includes fewer trees at the Rotary Wood site, instead opting for more mature trees to give the woodland a better chance of flourishing. There will also be 1,500 trees planted at other sites in Harrogate.
Tom has outlined his opposition to the plans, and is calling for the company to take positive steps to help the town, and do more than simply replace the trees and wood that would be lost if the expansion goes ahead. Tom wants to see the company actively giving back to the town, through provision of more woodland and space for the community, and piloting initiatives such as a bottle return scheme.
Commenting, Tom said:
“Harrogate Spring Water should be looking to invest in the town not just by providing jobs and trees, but by creating a larger area that local residents can come and enjoy, so that those who aren’t working for them actually benefit from the expansion. How can they expect anyone to support their plan when it only takes away from the town?
“I’m not supporting these plans. The bare minimum when it comes to the environment simply isn’t good enough. Harrogate Spring Water need to go further and should be trying to give back to the town whose name it uses. More woodland would give people the chance to go out and enjoy nature. If they want to do their part for the environment, they should be taking steps to utilise more glass, and create a bottle deposit return scheme, which would also show us that Harrogate Spring Water actually care about the town, rather than just making money.”
ENDS