A holiday park in North Devon has secured approval for a 10-lodge expansion despite opposition from local authorities and conservation groups, highlighting the ongoing tension between tourism development and environmental preservation in protected landscapes.
The extension, planned for Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park at Brackenridge, Sandy Lane, was met with objections from North Devon Coast National Landscape and Mortehoe Parish Council.
Concerns centered around the impact on the surrounding protected area, including potential disruptions to dark skies, tranquillity, and the open landscape buffer between the park and nearby properties.
According to a report by Radio Exe, North Devon Coast National Landscape stated that the development would “not preserve the dark skies, peace, and tranquillity of the landscape and was against planning policy.”
Additionally, objectors raised issues related to increased noise, light pollution, and traffic, according to a report by Radio EXE.
Despite these concerns, North Devon Council officers gave “significant weight” to existing planning permission for a five-story dwelling with a swimming pool that had been previously approved.
Council officers determined that while the lodges would cover a larger footprint than the previously approved dwelling, they would be single-story structures and therefore less visually imposing.
They noted that the alternative—a multi-story building—would have had a far greater impact when viewed from footpaths to the south.
Lancaster Trading and Development, the company behind the holiday park, emphasized that the lodges would be placed at low density among existing trees and landscape features to reduce visibility.
The company also stated that any increase in visitors and traffic would be “very minor” relative to the size of the site and current accommodation levels.
Operating since the 1960s, Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park currently has 295 static pitches that accommodate up to 1,800 guests and employs approximately 500 staff. In 2016, the business received approval for a 50-lodge expansion.
For businesses in the outdoor hospitality sector, the case underscores the importance of balancing expansion efforts with environmental and community considerations.
With the increasing scrutiny of developments in protected landscapes, operators may face heightened regulatory challenges when seeking approvals.
Addressing concerns through strategic site planning, sustainable design, and engagement with stakeholders will be key to navigating future expansion efforts.
The approval is contingent on meeting several conditions, including the submission of a detailed lighting and screening plan and the creation of a natural habitat to align with biodiversity requirements.