Plans for more static lodges at a North Lincolnshire holiday park have been allowed on appeal.
In September, councillors rejected proposals for 17 more static lodges at Epworth Fields Holiday Park, in Newland Lane, which would have brought the total number of static lodges on site to 41. The plans also included a pond, new parking bays, and the building of a reception block.
Neighbours and Epworth Town Council had objected to the plans, and Axholme Central Ward Cllr Tim Mitchell called it in too, requesting at least the holiday park’s touring caravans and camping ended. The council’s planning committee decided, after a site visit, to reject the proposals by six votes to one.
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Concern about an adverse impact on the Isle of Axholme’s character and historic landscape was the cited reason for refusal. The decision was appealed by Epworth Fields Holiday Park’s owner William Lee.
Planning inspector F Wilkinson’s appeal decision, issued earlier this month, is to allow the scheme to go ahead. “The site has a strong sense of containment from the surrounding countryside afforded by the existing boundary features,” the inspector stated in their appeal decision. “The proposed development would not be highly visible or intrusive when viewed from the surrounding area.”
In reaction to the appeal decision, Mr Lee said: “We are very happy the planning inspector came to the right decision on overturning North Lincolnshire Council’s planning committee decision to refuse the application, even after recommendation of approval from the council planning officer.
“The new development will be a exciting project as it is building on our goal to create a five star Luxury Park within Epworth. We are looking to provide luxury lodges and a well stocked fishing resort for our customers to enjoy.”
Drainage, traffic, wildlife, loss of privacy and the proximity of multiple bins were all concerns raised by next door residents who objected at the two planning committees the application was discussed at. A passage quoted from The Bible, and a claim the expansion would breach the Human Rights Act, were made by separate residents.
Inspector Wilkinson did have concerns that two proposed lodges on the southern end of the site were “relatively close” to a neighbouring property and could cause detrimental impact via overlooking. A condition has been placed that these are not permitted for holiday lodge use, which the applicant was agreeable to.
No lodge or static caravan pitch shall be occupied on the site for more than 28 consecutive days in any 12 months. And only an extra 15 static lodges are permitted.
The inspector found no substantive reason to conclude the proposal would have an unacceptable impact on highways safety, noting council highways had not objected. Drainage and biodiversity management plan conditions have been issued, as has a requirement that an alternative location is secured for the holiday park’s bins. During a council committee meeting, one Newland Lane resident complained of their proximity, and owner Mr Lee indicated willingness for a condition to move them.
Claims of noise and anti-social behaviour issues associated with the holiday park were made by objecting residents at the planning committees last year. Inspector Wilkinson states in the appeal decision: “There is no substantive evidence to suggest that noise or anti-social behaviour is an issue at the site.”
In a document submitted as part of the application, and at a committee meeting, Mr Lee laid out the holiday park’s vision. He bought the park in October 2021. He and his wife had invested in the renovation of holiday cottages, roads and driveways for holiday homes, and aim to achieve “a five-star luxury lodge site”.
They said they wanted to work alongside nearby residents. Mr Lee stated the holiday park wanted to move away from touring caravan pitches having any part in its business. In an application letter, the site’s potential international appeal given Epworth’s religious roots was also emphasised by Mr Lee. “We would consult with business in the area to create package holidays and look to welcome international visitors to the area, as the Methodist church has a large congregation in such countries as America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.”
When councillors voted 6-1 to reject the application originally, only Cllr Max Bell voted in favour. He expressed sympathy for residents, but was concerned about the council losing money with it overturned on appeal.
Original artice: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/all-about/scunthorpe
