Forestry England has formally submitted a planning application to Durham County Council to develop a £32.6 million project in Hamsterley Forest, County Durham.
The proposed project includes the construction of 70 cabins, a Go Ape activity center, a net-zero visitor center, meeting spaces, a bunkhouse, and a camping area within the 5,000-acre forest.
Forestry England emphasized that the development is the result of years of planning and consultation with local communities.
Kevin May, forest management director for Forestry England’s North District, stated that the project is designed to balance the needs of visitors, wildlife, and the local community, ensuring the forest’s long-term sustainability.
The proposal includes measures such as restricted car access for Forest Holidays customers and a 10 mph speed limit enforced by trained staff.
According to a report by The Northern Echo, the project is expected to create 135 non-seasonal jobs, all paying above the living wage. These roles are intended to contribute to the local economy and offer year-round employment opportunities.
The development has elicited mixed reactions. During a public consultation in September at Auckland Tower, residents expressed both support and concerns.
Some attendees viewed the project as a positive step, citing improved facilities and potential economic benefits, while others worried about its environmental impact and the potential disruption to the forest’s tranquility.
Local residents Frank and Marian Holmes expressed concerns about the impact on the forest’s habitats, while Glyn Humphries, a frequent mountain biker, viewed the development as generally positive but raised concerns about increased traffic and the scale of the cabin construction.
Opposition to the proposal also emerged over the past few weeks. The Hamsterley Forest Action Group, a local organization, has launched a petition to oppose the development, citing concerns about preserving the forest’s natural environment. The petition has gathered nearly 2,000 signatures.
The council is currently reviewing the detailed planning documents, which include assessments of traffic, environmental impact, and economic benefits.
