We the undersigned object to the granting of planning permission for application #24/00096/PPPM

Locally known as the NCR field (formerly part of Camperdown Country Park which is owned by DCC) this area houses 150 heritage trees, 15 of which form the avenue leading to the entrance of the estate. Approximately 200 years old, planted contemporary to the building of Camperdown House in 1824, they are under Tree Preservation Orders. 

The planned development threatens this historic landscape. 

The trees are an imperative part of our flood risk mitigation; mature trees can take up around 500 gallons of water per year; not inclusive of the soil absorption. The trees alone could be responsible for absorbing up to 100,000 gallons of water every year. In addition to reducing flood risk they sequester carbon, and form habitat and shelter for a range of species. 

This area was bought by NCR and set aside as a recreational ground for their workers, and to this day is an accessible greenspace for local people, dog walkers, and as a place connect with nature and learn about natural biodiversity. 

The area threatened by the development is irreplaceable.

These veteran trees, with a potential lifespan of 400 years, are part of our cultural heritage, and have integrated ecosystems which cannot be replaced by the planting of saplings. This landscape is a tangible part of Dundee's history and culture, as well as a wealth of biodiversity, from mosses and lichens, to nesting birds, small mammals which are food birds of prey such as sparrow-hawks and owls, the trees are a feeding ground for woodpeckers, and house invertebrates essential to our ecosystem. 

If this development goes ahead we will lose a piece of our history, and a vital part of our future. We must protect our green spaces to preserve biodiversity, give access to nature, to mitigate climate change. 

In advance of the planning meeting, we are collecting signatures to demonstrate to Dundee City Council the opposition to a development on this site. 

Local groups and individuals have made formal objections, but although the consultation window is now closed, we sign here to voice our objection to the destruction of this culturally significant local greenspace. Camperdown park is a treasured and valued space and a haven of quiet for people to relax and enjoy nature. The entertainment stadium etc. is entirely inappropriate in this setting.

Dundee City Council should reject the plans as they contravene several DLDP policies listed below:

#1 Design-led approach and place-making
#29 Active travel and safeguard the line of outdoor access
#34 Protected Species; pine marten, red squirrel, bats, hedgehogs
#35 Survival of woodlands, hedgerows and individual trees
#53 Designed Landscapes; Camperdown and environs are protected
#54 Minimise the need to travel by private car. Must have no detrimental
effect on the capacity or safe functioning of existing road or rail network

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