We welcomed the news today that the planned development of 500 homes at Moor Lane in York has been unanimously refused permission by City of York Council.

We have been tirelessly campaigning against the development since it was originally submitted in 2013, on the grounds that it would cause substantial harm to the adjacent Askham Bog nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and an urban haven for wildlife.

Throughout its campaign, we've had the full support of The Wildlife Trusts' President Emeritus David Attenborough, who himself described Askham Bog as a "remarkable survivor of the ancient fenlands". 

In January, we visited the offices of the City of York Council to deliver news that over 7,000 people had lodged objections to the scheme. The voices, passion and donations from our supporters have been staggering during this campaign. We'd like to extend a huge thank you to every person who contributed.

“We’re absolutely delighted with today’s decision. Seven thousand people stood with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust in objecting to the proposals because of irreversible damage to the wonderful Askham Bog – a truly exceptional reserve for wildlife.  We are overjoyed that City of York Council has agreed with us and Askham Bog can continue to thrive as a special place for wildlife and for the people of York for years to come.”

_{Louise Wilkinson, Conservation Policy and Campaigns Manager}

Askham Bog is our oldest reserve and one of the richest places for wildlife in Yorkshire. For its size, this wet and peaty nature reserve lying just inside the York ring road, has more species of plants and animals than anywhere else in the county, which continue to flourish and become established there. 

It is home to many rare and unusual insects and has rich birdlife including reed warblers and breeding buzzards. In winter, huge flocks of siskins and redpolls feed on alder seeds. Visitors are also likely to see roe deer and, if lucky, a shy water vole.