Plans for two glamping pods in the village of Stanghow, near Guisborough, have been granted planning permission by Redcar and Cleveland Council despite concerns from local residents.
The proposal includes the installation of the pods, a dog exercise area, and five car parking spaces on paddock land near the Grade II-listed Plantation Cottages.
A report by planning officers recommended approval of the scheme, describing the glamping pods as small-scale structures with limited impact.
The report noted the pods would be screened by mature trees and positioned 50 meters from the nearest property, ensuring privacy and minimizing disruption.
Applicant Lee Wilson, a former dog handler with Cleveland Police, explained his intention with the property. “I aim to make this a quiet, quaint, restful experience, not one of rowdiness or disruption,” he told the Northern Echo, adding that living on-site would enable him to manage the property effectively.
Some residents raised concerns about potential noise, traffic, and other disturbances. Karen Myers, who has lived on a neighboring farm for over two decades, opposed the project, citing existing issues with parking and vehicle overflow.
“We believe the applicant’s plans will be of no benefit to the community and will have a devastating effect on the village,” she said.
Other objections included worries about loose dogs harming livestock and the potential for increased noise.
In response, Mr. Wilson stated that dogs would be confined to the designated exercise area, and a condition of the planning approval restricts its use to glamping visitors and his family. He also emphasized that visitors’ vehicles would be parked in a secluded area to preserve privacy.
Councillor Stuart Smith, chair of the planning committee, acknowledged the intensity of the local opposition but highlighted that many concerns were outside the scope of planning legislation.
After visiting the site, he noted that the pods, described as timber-based shepherd’s huts with essential amenities, would be appropriately screened and professionally managed.
The committee approved the application unanimously, with Councillor Philip Thomson proposing the motion and Councillor Vera Rider seconding it.
The planning officer’s report concluded that the project aligns with local development goals by providing a tourism facility while addressing privacy and environmental considerations.