Police urged to probe development squirrel row

Campaigners gathered to protest against the development outside council chambers in Workington when the application was heard

Environmental campaigners have asked police to get involved in a row over a report about a development and its impact on an endangered species.

Cockermouth Wildlife campaign group wrote to Cumbria's chief constable about an environmental report submitted as part of an application to build homes at the old fire station site in Cockermouth.

The project, brought by businessman Bill Dobie, was first halted last year when it emerged that the report looking into the presence of red squirrels was out of date.

Mr Dobie said any claim made to police from the group was "unreservedly unfounded".

Red squirrels are an endangered species and any development that would damage their nests would be unlawful.

When the plans went back before Cumberland Council planners in March with a fresh environmental report provided by the developer, councillors decided to commission an independent report due to "confidence" concerns.

The application is to build six homes and a four-storey apartment block of 10 flats at the old fire station site in Cockermouth

Campaigners from Cockermouth Wildlife want the police to look into how the initial, old report came to be submitted.

Cumbria Police confirmed it had received the letter.

A spokesman said: "The content of the letter will be considered and, where deemed appropriate, further enquiries will be carried out."

Cumberland Council confirmed it was aware of the letter sent to police.

A spokesman said the council was discussing with ecologists how long it would take to produce a new report.

They added a potential police investigation would not delay the process, as they were separate matters.

The application is for six homes and a four-storey apartment block of 10 flats at site, also known as the Sidings.