A dispute over a proposed glamping development on a historic mill estate near Bungay has escalated to the national level, with an appeal now lodged with the Planning Inspectorate.
The proposal, submitted earlier this year by Iain Gwynn to South Norfolk Council, sought approval to install three one-bedroom cabins at Earsham Mill, a 19th-century estate.
The cabins, described as rustic and dog-friendly, would be crafted by an artisan working out of a workshop located on the estate.
According to planning documents, the project aimed to create a “peaceful and relaxing retreat” for weekend visitors and short-term stays, encouraging guests to “disconnect and enjoy the history that the site and area offer.”
The plans also emphasized the ecological suitability of the cabins, stating: “We believe cabins provide an ecologically viable accommodation solution, suited to the area.”
However, South Norfolk Council rejected the proposal on the grounds of flood risk. The council’s planning decision concluded that the application “failed to demonstrate that the development would not be at risk from unacceptable flood risk.”
Additionally, the council noted a lack of detail concerning the design of the proposed holiday units, which contributed to their decision to deny planning permission.
Following the local authority’s refusal, Mr. Gwynn filed an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate, the government body tasked with reviewing such planning disputes.
According to a report published by the Eastern Daily Press, a decision from the Inspectorate will determine whether the development can proceed, taking into account national planning policy and site-specific considerations.
For outdoor hospitality business owners, particularly those operating or considering development near historic or environmentally sensitive sites, this case underscores the importance of addressing flood risk comprehensively during the planning process.
It also highlights how incorporating detailed, site-specific design and sustainability data can be critical in obtaining planning consent for nature-based tourism projects.