A CONCERNED community has launched its own pressure group to combat plans for a static caravan site in a Ribble Valley hamlet.

The 'Horseshoe Woods Action Group' has been formed to represent residents who oppose a planning application for a permanent caravan site at Davis Gate Wood, Dutton, near Ribchester.

The group said if a caravan site is built it will have devastating consequences for the rural landscape, cultural heritage and flora and fauna in the area.

But Alan Kinder, the agent for the applicants, Classic and Country Ltd, said the caravan site will be secluded, will actually improve the environment there and will boost tourism in the Ribble Valley.

Residents have contributed to a fighting fund for the action group to help finance the campaign.

The Ribble Valley Borough Council's planning department, which will decide the outcome of the application, has already received 267 letters of objection.

The proposed development of 79 static caravans and a warden office was submitted to the council on November 13.

A date has not yet been set for it to be discussed by the planning committee.

The site is also opposed by Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans, the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England and the Campaign for Dark Skies.

Mr Evans said: "Many people are concerned about rural asset stripping in the Ribble Valley and it is evident that this planning proposal has created a strong swell of public criticism.

"We have a responsibility to protect Davis Gate Wood for the benefit of its abundant wildlife and on behalf of the many people who visit the area to enjoy its natural assets and rural heritage."

A spokesperson for the Horseshoe Woods Action Group said: "We know that we are privileged to live in such a nice area and with that privilege comes responsibility.

"It's a responsibility to protect the area and protect it from people coming to the Ribble Valley, to a beautiful part of the world."

But Mr Kinder said: "There is an opportunity to create a major facility of quality design that is extremely well secluded from nearly all vantage points.

"We are also doing positive works to enhance and protect the natural site in terms of the land that is already there."

He added: "It is the policy at governmental, county and borough level to be supportive of rural tourism initiatives."

People who want to give their views on the application should contact Ribble Valley Borough Council planning department.