The appeal comes despite Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Planning Committee reaching a unanimous “minded to reject” decision on the application. This decision was welcomed by local residents and environmental advocates who have long opposed any development within the ancient woodland.
 
Mr Mathison emphasised that the PAC appeal now places renewed responsibility on the Council to defend its position robustly: “It is the right of any applicant to lodge an appeal. However, residents who fought so hard to make the case that development on an ancient woodland site was unacceptable will clearly be very disappointed with this news.
 
"The planning committee opposed this development unanimously, and the arguments will now have to be made again to ensure this site is protected. The Council's role is now key. Officers must make the case robustly that the right decision was taken, and this whole site should remain undeveloped. I hope the right decision is reached in due course.”
 
Alliance Councillor for Newtownards, Vicky Moore added: “Much as it is the developer’s right, it is disappointing to see this appeal lodged, especially after the Planning Committee’s unanimous decision. The community has been clear that development within Tullynagardy Wood is unacceptable. The Council must now defend that position firmly at the PAC, and we need stronger long-term protections so this woodland is not repeatedly put at risk.”
 
Mr Mathison is calling on the Council to take decisive action to strengthen protections for Tullynagardy Wood, both in the immediate PAC proceedings and for the long term through the ongoing development of the Council’s Local Development Plan.
 
“Tullynagardy Wood is an irreplaceable natural asset. Its protection must be a priority, not just for now, but for generations to come,” Mr Mathison said.