A NEW environment group has won a boost after plans to extend a vet's car park were thrown out.
Organiser Steve Priest said it was a tremendous lift-off for the group, fighting to protect green space in the Longley area.
"It's a great victory and a decision which should be welcomed," he added.
Ten new parking spots were to be created by veterinary practice Donaldson and Partners, near its surgery off Maple Street.
But Kirklees Council planners turned down the scheme because part of the land is urban green space.
Mr Priest said it was just one example of creeping development in the Longley area.
"Longley Hall Woods should be protected because they are a vital green lung close to the town centre," he said.
His group is staging a mass rubbish clear-up on Sunday, January 18.
Mr Priest appealed for volunteers to turn up at Wood Lane, Ashenhurst, Newsome, at 11am.
Donaldsons owns the land where it anted the car park. The plan was to have included a small garden area.
A Kirklees Council spokesman said: "There is a track through the land which has to be kept clear for access to the woods.
"Highways officers were not happy with the arrangements."
