In the quaint village of Foulridge, the approval of four new glamping pods by Pendle Council has sparked a mix of anticipation and concern. This development brings a modern twist to camping in the area, blending luxury with the rustic charm of the countryside.
The project, initiated by Mr. and Mrs. Handley, involves setting up glamping pods adjacent to their 10-bedroom property, Moorlands, on Skipton Old Road. These pods aim to offer a comfortable and upscale camping experience, tapping into the growing trend of glamping – a fusion of glamour and camping.
However, this development has not been met without reservations. The Foulridge Parish Council, echoing the worries of local residents, has raised concerns about potential noise disturbances.
These concerns stem from the current use of Moorlands as a venue for large gatherings, where activities like fireworks have reportedly disrupted the tranquility of the area.
Traffic and safety on Skipton Old Road have also been highlighted as points of concern. The increased movement to and from the site, particularly towards Kelbrook, poses questions about road safety and congestion, as reported by the Lancashire Telegraph.
Public objections have further emphasized the apprehension within the community. Some residents have described Moorlands as a ‘party house,’ accommodating up to 29 people and hosting events with loud music and fireworks. These objections, lodged with Pendle Council in December, reflect a significant unease about the potential change in the area’s character.
In response to these concerns, the Lancashire County Council’s highways department has not raised objections but suggested specific access routes to the site. This recommendation aims to mitigate potential traffic issues, as detailed in the Lancashire Telegraph’s report.
The development plan includes constructing a new track within Moorlands to facilitate access to the agricultural land designated for the pods. This track is designed to blend with the surrounding landscape, minimizing the environmental impact.
The economic and tourism benefits of the project have been a driving factor in its approval. The glamping pods are expected to attract visitors to Foulridge, boosting local businesses and contributing to the area’s economic growth.
Balancing the development with community interests, the Handley’s have agreed to restrict the use of the pods to holiday purposes only. This decision is a nod to the concerns raised by residents, aiming to minimize any negative impact on the local community.
The approval of the glamping pods in Foulridge presents a new opportunity for tourism and economic growth, while also bringing to the forefront the importance of community concerns in rural development.
As this project moves forward, it will be a testament to finding a harmonious balance between innovation in tourism and preserving the essence of community life.