Flintshire council rejected a proposal for a new glamping site near Mold due to significant flood risk concerns.
According to an article published by The Leader, Stuart Thomas submitted an application in November last year to establish four glamping pods on land adjacent to Alyn Kennels and Cattery in Pantymwyn.
The project, located near Loggerheads Country Park within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, included plans for amenities such as a recycling area, bike storage, parking spaces, and footpaths at the Cefn Bychan Woods site. The decision to deny permission was based on the site’s location within a C2 flood risk zone, as defined by Flintshire’s flood risk assessment.
Planning officer Alison Dean emphasized that “highly vulnerable development,” such as glamping sites, are not permitted in these areas due to potential dangers.
In her decision report, Dean stated: “Whilst the general principle of tourist accommodation in the open countryside would often be supported in policy terms, the application contains insufficient information. The site consists of highly vulnerable development and is proposed to be located within a C2 flood risk area, which is not permitted.”
The planning agents highlighted the growing demand for glamping accommodations throughout the UK, arguing: “The proposed glamping site will provide a new and exciting accommodation option for the Mold area. Demand for this type of accommodation is high throughout the country, which has also been shown to be true of other glamping sites within the UK.
Understanding potential environmental hazards, such as flood risks, is crucial before submitting proposals for developments like glamping sites. Flintshire Council’s rejection of a proposal for a glamping site near Mold underscores the importance of thorough environmental assessments. The site was situated within a C2 flood risk zone, raising significant concerns about the safety and sustainability of the development.