Tourism in Moira, England is set to receive a significant boost with the approval of new glamping pods. These pods, designed to increase tourism, have been approved by officials and are expected to be within walking distance of two of the district’s biggest attractions.
However, according to an article by LeicestershireLive, the proposal did spark some concerns about potential impacts on residents.
The glamping pods will be based at the existing Ashby Woulds Lodges in Spring Cottage Lane, near Measham and Ashby.
The site is conveniently located around the corner from top attraction Conkers, while Moira Furnace is also within a mile of the site. This proximity to major attractions provides plenty of tourist opportunities, according to the applicant, Tom Hartley.
Documents reveal that the pods would all be “modest” in size and would sit in the currently unoccupied grassy area at the front of the Lodges site. All six proposed lodges will be “prefabricated timber structures” in what Hartley described as a “sustainable location”.
Some concerns were raised by Ashby Woulds Town Council. While not objecting to the overall plan, they did express fears that the pods’ location was “very close to the road” and could “impact on other residents/visitors”.
However, JMI Planning, on behalf of Hartley, confirmed it had taken measures to limit any potential harm. They stated, “The pods are well screened by established hedgerows across the northern and eastern boundary, and will not therefore appear unduly prominent. The pods are positioned within the existing holiday accommodation site and do not encroach into the surrounding countryside.”
Documents also revealed that the six pods will be used for “short-term holiday accommodation only”. JMI Planning also confirmed that one parking space for each pod will be provided within existing parking provisions on site.
Hartley’s plans also stressed how the pods would be a “sustainable expansion” of the current lodge business and that access to tourist sites nearby could be “conveniently accessed” by footpaths and cycle paths nearby. He believed this would eliminate the need to travel by car.
Officials at North West West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) also believed the pods would bring much good to the area and boasted many “sustainable” benefits due to location and limited impact on residents.
In its approval, the council said, “The proposal would result in an increase in tourism to an existing site which would benefit local businesses and communities.”
The new glamping pods in Moira are expected to boost local tourism by providing a sustainable and convenient accommodation option for visitors. Despite some concerns, measures have been taken to ensure minimal impact on residents and the surrounding countryside.