The Westmorland and Furness Council has refused plans for the expansion of the Low Fell Gate Caravan Site in Grange, south Cumbria. This refusal comes in the wake of proposals from J & CA Wilkin aimed at converting agricultural land into a 60-pitch campsite for tents and caravans.
The council’s decision was grounded in concerns over encroachment into the open countryside, potential negative impacts on residential amenities, and significant traffic safety risks.
The proposed expansion sought to extend the existing caravan site onto adjacent agricultural land, potentially increasing the site’s capacity to accommodate more visitors.
However, the decision notice highlighted that such an extension would result in unwarranted encroachment into the open countryside without robust justification, threatening the natural beauty and openness of the area, as reported by The Mail.
Further compounding the council’s decision were the projected ‘unacceptable impacts’ on the living conditions of nearby residents. The tranquility and residential amenity currently enjoyed by the community were deemed at risk from the proposed development.
One of the most pressing concerns was the anticipated increase in traffic along Cartmel Road, a situation that the council feared would create conflicts between motorized and vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
The notice pointed out that the proposed expansion would substantially heighten traffic, exacerbating safety issues on the already narrow roads.
Despite the developers’ intentions to broaden the range of accommodation in the local area and possible economic benefits such as increased customer spend and local employment opportunities, the plan faced considerable opposition.
According to the council, the proposal attracted 16 letters of objection from neighboring properties and formal objections from Grange Over Sands Town Council, which argued there was a ‘lack of evidence of need’ for the expansion and raised concerns over ‘lack of public transport options’.
The highways team of Westmorland and Furness Council echoed these objections, specifically highlighting the inadequacies of the local road infrastructure to safely accommodate the increased traffic.
They suggested a series of improvements that would be necessary should any future proposal be considered, including the creation of an appropriate priority junction and enhanced pedestrian and cyclist facilities along the affected roads.
The application was refused on March 15, marking a clear stance by the Westmorland and Furness Council on prioritizing the preservation of the countryside, residential quality of life, and traffic safety over development interests.
This decision not only reflects the council’s dedication to safeguarding the character and environment of south Cumbria but also underscores the importance of community input and sustainable planning in local development projects.
Looks like the Low Fell Gate Caravan Site’s expansion got the thumbs down from the council. If you’re seeking camping spots in Grange, Cumbria, check out other charming sites sans the proposed changes.
Did you hear about that quirky protest where locals dressed up as ‘nature guardians’? Their banners shouting Keep our countryside wild, not caravan-filled! sure got people talking about preserving our natural charm!
It’s great to see the consideration for the Low Fell Gate Caravan Site! Maybe we can find a way for development that balances growth while keeping the area’s charm intact. Let’s work together on this!
What a win! The Council’s rejection of the Low Fell Gate Caravan Site expansion is fantastic news! They’re now working closely with locals on eco-friendly projects to boost the area’s charm, support community well-being, and safeguard nature. Plus, they’re looking into better transport and road safety for all of us. Exciting stuff!
Did you catch wind of the suggestions to spruce up the existing Low Fell Gate Caravan Site instead of expanding it? Some cool eco-friendly ideas are floating around to jazz up the place without messing with nature or safety. Really makes you think, right?
Isn’t it intriguing how the rejection of the Low Fell Gate Caravan Site expansion plans prompts us to collaborate on eco-friendly ways to boost the area’s economy while safeguarding its charm and residents’ well-being? Let’s work together for a sustainable future in Grange, south Cumbria.
Isn’t it cool how the rejection of the Low Fell Gate Caravan Site expansion sparked community creativity? Locals and officials are buzzing with eco-friendly ideas to enhance the area while preserving its natural beauty.
Isn’t it interesting how the rejection of the caravan site expansion led to a focus on eco-friendly tourism options? It’s cool to see communities coming together for sustainable tourism growth!
Seems like the caravan site expansion got a big no from the council. Locals weren’t thrilled about it. Maybe it’s time for a different plan that keeps the area’s charm intact.