Plans for a campsite on “flood-risk” land near Ombersley have been withdrawn following opposition from local residents. The proposed site, located in Lineholt adjacent to the River Severn, initially sought to establish up to six camping pitches on a field known as Severn Meadow.
The Environment Agency classifies the proposed area as Flood Zone 3, indicating a “high risk of flooding.” Nearby residents voiced their concerns about the safety and practicality of the project.
According to an article published by Worcester News on August 4, the planning documents attempted to address these concerns by proposing that the campsite would not operate during the months from October to March, and the owner had prepared an evacuation plan.
Ellen Manterfield, a local resident, expressed her worries about the flooding of the site. “The site is also regularly flooded, so there would be great danger to people as the access is often very limited or cut off entirely,” she stated.
“Flooding has happened expectedly but often unexpectedly as early in the year as March. I don’t think it’s safe to allow a site to be created here,” Manterfield explained.
Another local, Neil Hunt shared his experiences with the nature of flooding in the area and potential dangers. “In wet conditions the lane becomes muddy, slippery and dangerous. There have been many vehicles who have ventured beyond my house down the lane and got stuck,” he said.
Hunt also pointed out that the Severn Meadow site is “prone” to flooding from the River Severn, and this occurs not only during the winter months. He recalled that there have been severe floods on numerous occasions since he has lived there, with eight of these floods occurring during the months of June, July, and September.
The proposed campsite’s location within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) raised additional environmental concerns. Residents highlighted the presence of wildlife species in the area.
Manterfield noted that the field is home to both common and greater crested newts, while Tina Jones expressed concern about the impact on local bird populations. Jones stated, “Having recorded a rare bird – the redstart – within the locality of the proposed campsite, I’m concerned that this natural habitat will be devastated, which in turn will affect the balance of the SSSI.”
The case of the Severn Meadow campsite proposal underscores the importance of understanding ecological and geographical challenges. For private campground owners and developers, considering flood risks, environmental conservation, and community concerns in the planning process can ensure smooth approval and mitigate opposition.
