A proposed expansion of Green Meadows Country Park in Blackford, near Carlisle, is currently under consideration by Cumberland Council.
If approved, the plans would allow for the installation of 22 additional caravans, designated as holiday lodges, on land situated between the main area of the caravan park and its entrance.
The proposed development includes a circular internal access road to serve the new units and several landscaping features aimed at improving both the aesthetics and biodiversity of the site.
According to the News&Star, the affected field is currently used for dog walking by guests and is located on the western side of the site’s main access road.
The statement notes, “The field is situated on the western side of the access road that lies on a north-south axis and is bounded by a hedgerow to its eastern side, which is within third-party landownership.”
Key components of the development include a new vehicular access point at the southern end of the internal road and the creation of two ponds, intended to offer both amenity and environmental benefits.
The southern pond would measure approximately 34 metres in length and 17 metres in width, while the northern pond would span about 16 metres by 21 metres. In addition, the existing roadside Hawthorn hedge on the west side of the site will be retained and maintained at a height of at least 2.5 metres.
The landscaping plan proposes planting 26 trees along the western boundary, establishing a small copse opposite Dinmont Cottage, and creating a new Hawthorn hedge with 16 interspersed trees along the eastern boundary.
Further tree planting would be introduced near the reception building and throughout the site to enhance habitat and screen views from public areas.
The design aims to mitigate the loss of existing grassland through the addition of enhanced modified grassland, water features, hedgerows, and a range of new trees.
Foul water from the site would be managed using a package treatment plant, and surface water would be directed through the ponds into an existing southern watercourse, with flow rates managed to match those of the undeveloped land.
The planning statement argues that the proposal aligns with local policy and supports the broader tourism economy.
It states, “It is clear that the development accords with the relevant local plan policies. There are no material considerations that suggest that the supportive policy approach should not be followed.”
It adds, “If, contrary to the views expressed in this statement, any harm were alleged to occur as a consequence of the development, the extent of that harm would have to be weighed against the overwhelming policy support in favour of the tourism sector, which is a matter that should be given significant weight in policy terms.”
The site remains under review by planning authorities, with no final decision date yet announced.
If approved, the development could signal further opportunities for rural tourism accommodation providers looking to expand or enhance their offerings through low-impact, landscape-sensitive design.