It's Red Squirrel Week (Monday 28th September - Sunday 4th October). What a week to smash our 10,000 target! Any petition with 10,000 signatures requires a response from the government. We now need just over 200 to reach this milestone. A recent article in the Guardian on EU regulations for invasive species stated that the advance of grey squirrels has 'shrunk the territory of the UK’s once endemic red squirrels to a few cantons in Scotland and the Isle of Wight'. http://bit.ly/1iR4MOj What about Newcastle?! Earlier this month the Telegraph reported that the last safe haven for red squirrels on the English mainland is now under threat as greys were found invading Kielder Forest. Newcastle's reds are clinging on in the city's dwindling woodlands. But for how long? Kind supporters have so far pledged £1,177 through our crowdfunding page http://bit.ly/1OA3umO There are still 17 days to pledge. The National Planning Casework Unit, the department that processes planning casework on behalf of the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, has today said that a decision on the Woolsington applications will be made 'imminently' but still no date could be given. Newcastle City Council will be informed shortly in advance of those who have made representations. And so the waiting game goes on. Can we reach 10,000 signatures before the final decision is made?