Campaign group to fight woodland holiday park plan

Campaigners said the plans would cause harm to the woodland

A campaign group is being set up to fight plans to build a holiday park in a Derbyshire woodland.

Forest Holidays - the commercial partner of Forestry England - wants to build 75 timber cabins in 140 acres of woodland near Matlock as part of a £23m investment.

The firm said it would "enhance" the area and provide a number of jobs, but residents have opposed the proposal.

Jim Dixon, former chief executive of the Peak District National Park Authority, and who is against the plans, said: "It's going to have a huge impact on this tiny little forest."

The development would be situated within woodland on a third of the 440-acre Farley Moor, which is owned and managed by Forestry England.

Mr Dixon, who lives in Matlock, said he is in the process of setting up an organised campaign group of people who live close to, and use the forest.

"Local people use this woodland for wildlife, the landscape and the peace and quiet," the 62-year-old said.

"In the heart of the forest, there's going to be a road network, a huge car park and a network of eco lodges."

Forest Holidays wants to build 75 timber cabins in woodland near Matlock

If approved, the site will accommodate 185 people in nine one-bed cabins, 35 two-bed cabins, 22 three-bed cabins, five four-bed cabins and four five-bed treehouse cabins.

The scheme would include a shop, cafe and outdoor play area – including archery range – as well as 249 parking spaces.

'Benefit for all'

Andrew Brook, director of sustainable growth at Forest Holidays, said the plans would create 48 full-time jobs, rising to 57 within three years.

Paul Harrop, local forest management director at Forestry England, added: "The vital work we do costs millions each year and although a small percentage comes from government, the majority is self-generated with the support of members, visitors, timber sales and partners such as Forest Holidays.

"These funds allow Forestry England to continue our work to support nature, help wildlife and open up more green spaces for the benefit for all."

Derbyshire Dales District Council is expected to make a decision on the application later this year.