Umeå Municipality has initiated an appeal against the County Administrative Board's decision that prohibits them from demolishing structures or cutting down trees on an island. The municipality acknowledges the need to protect valuable natural environments, but argues that the assessment regarding the white-backed woodpecker is overly extensive. They contend that the assessment does not accurately reflect the potential impact of their planned developments on local wildlife.

The municipality has expressed its commitment to safeguarding species, backed by studies aimed at ensuring that any affected populations are not detrimentally impacted. Mayor Janet Ågren emphasizes that while they take species protection seriously, the board's conclusions regarding the woodpecker require reevaluation. Umeå's plans for the island include residential housing, a new center, and a bridge to enhance accessibility for residents.

This controversy is not new; Umeå had intentions to develop the island as early as 2017, but those plans were impeded by environmental protection demands from conservation groups, advocating for the area to be recognized as a reserve. The presence of the woodpecker has been documented occasionally, although the species does not currently nest on the island, complicating the municipality's objectives and raising questions about balancing development and environmental conservation.