A CAMPAIGN group set up in opposition to the holiday village development at Delamere Forest has organised a public meeting.

Communities Against Delamere’s Destruction (CADD) – which is also opposed to the plans for a visitor hub at the Cheshire beauty spot – is holding the meeting at Manley Village Hall at 7pm tomorrow (Friday).

The group is opposed to the ‘total commercialisation’ of the forest and is aiming to gather public support against the plans.

CADD has set up an online guest book. Several messages have already been left.

Martin Sadler, posted: “Why does everything have to turn private and commercial – just leave it alone for all of us to enjoy!”

Kingswood resident Alison, posted: “I am horrified that they want to put cabins in such a beautiful area. I feel the beauty of this forest will be lost forever.”

Mark and Sharon Holliday, said: “It will destroy wildlife, the natural eco system and the history that surrounds it. Rural life is meant to be tranquil and peaceful but this proposed development would bring increased traffic and pollution.”

Not all messages were hostile toward the plans though.

Christina posted: “Surely helping the local community economically during the struggle through this long recession can only be a good thing?”

People have until March 31 to have their say on the plans.

A pre-planning consultation period for residents, forest users and parish councils, as well as members of the public, began last Thursday.

Three drop-in sessions for people to view or discuss the proposed developments will take place at the information centre at Linmere on the following days:

Tuesday, March 6, 10am–noon.

Wednesday, March 7, noon-5pm.

Thursday, March 8, 5-8pm.

Forestry Commission and Forest Holidays staff will be on hand to discuss the plans.

On ce the consultation period has ended and the views have been taken into account, two separate planning applications will be submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council.

One will be for the log cabins and the other will be for the new visitor hub.

Project manager Andrea Peattie said: “We’ll amend our plans where we think it’s valid.”

To have your say email delamereconsultation@forestry.gsi.gov.uk or write to The Forest Manager, Delamere Forest, Linmere, Delamere, Cheshire, CW8 2JD.