Alliance Strangford MLA Nick Mathison has expressed disappointment after confirmation that a developer seeking to build five luxury homes within Tullynagardy Wood in Newtownards has formally lodged an appeal with the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC).

The appeal follows a unanimous "minded to reject" decision by Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Planning Committee, a move that had been welcomed by local residents and environmental groups who oppose development within the ancient woodland.

Mr Mathison said the appeal places renewed responsibility on the council to strongly defend its position. He said: "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.

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"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, also criticised the decision to appeal, noting the strength of local opposition and the council’s earlier ruling.

"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 said the case underlines the need for stronger safeguards for Tullynagardy Wood, both during the PAC process and through the ongoing development of the council’s Local Development Plan.