Report by James Smith - 11 October 2003 from the website of the Nottingham Evening Post
Eco-protesters are holding out in their battle to save ancient woodland, despite a visit from bailiffs.
The 30-strong group is attempting to prevent trees along Debdale Road, Mansfield Woodhouse, being felled for housing by property developers Bellway Homes.Last month Mansfield County Court declared them trespassers - clearing the way for them to be evicted from the site.
But the group are still holding out after digging a tunnel deep into the limestone under the site.
And the protesters remain defiant today after a preliminary visit to the site by a group of bailiffs.
The bailiffs made an inspection of the site and the protesters' defences, but left without making an attempt to move them.
Despite the threat of eviction, the protesters are continuing to tunnel further under the site in the hope of making attempts to bring down the trees impossible.
The tunnel has an underground living area and is equipped to support two people for a month. Protesters also camped in the branches of a 300-year-old beech tree.
Local resident Mary Parkin said: "The bailiffs have been out to look at the site, but because of the extensive tunnelling they've gone away to sort out their tunnel eviction team.
"There are still protesters in the trees and others continuing to tunnel towards them.
"Bellway have already had a solicitor's letter from residents.
"For 60 or 70 years this area has been used for recreation, so we are seeking an injunction to prevent them touching the site in any way, shape or form.
"The land shouldn't be touched until that application has been heard."
Julian Kenyon, a spokesman for Bellway Homes, said the firm was pleased with the progress being made through the courts.
He said: "We have been successful in obtaining a court order.
"These people are officially trespassing so we now need to consider the implications of enforcement."
However, the company faces a battle on two fronts.
A couple living nearby have started legal proceedings to prevent developers replacing the road outside their house with an embankment.
Lynn and Michael Barnes, of Debdale Gate, claim they are going to lose access to their home and have contacted their solicitors over their concerns.
Mrs Barnes said: "We have lived here since 1976 and now they want to build a new road at the side of the old one and replace the old one with an embankment.
"We are the only house on the road without a driveway so use the road for parking our car.
"This would take away the access to our house so there will be nowhere to park, nowhere for a dustbin and nowhere for an emergency vehicle if needed."
For more information on this campaign see Robin's Wood Eco Action Camp
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