Controversial plans for new holiday homes in ‘beauty spot’ receive over 100 objections

Plans for 35 holiday homes in the Lincolnshire Wolds have so far received over 100 objections, with residents and the area’s MP claiming it will destroy a beauty spot.

The application, lodged by Matthew Monteith, would see 35 holiday lodge caravans and one site office/reception caravan built at Kingsmead Park, Swinhope.

Kingsmead Park, Swinhope is an established park and popular community with planning permission and a Site Licence for 72 residential caravans in Lincolnshire.

The plans would extend this to 107 residential caravans/lodges in the area.

If approved, the holiday lodges will be in sympathy with the surrounding landscape, clad in timber, or wood effect ‘canexel’ in colours compatible with the location such as grey, green and brown.

A planning statement in support of the application said: “The proposed holiday lodges would generate local employment both directly at the site and indirectly through the off-site spending by visitors at other local service providers in the district.

“The holiday park use will provide an opportunity for recreation in the countryside, particularly walking in the local area, promoting good health and social interaction.

“The application site is well screened and with additional planting and control of the proposed cladding of the lodges, the proposed use will not have any detrimental effect on the character and appearance of the AONB.

“The site is in a sustainable location with access to a choice of means of transport including a bus-stop outside the entrance to the adjoining park.”

Objections

So far, over 100 objections have been lodged with the local planning authority.

Objections have also been raised by the Lincolnshire Wolds countryside service on the grounds that it is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which should be protected and conserved.

Some of the main reasons for the objections include:

• Chance the site may devalue surrounding properties
• Road access too poor to cope with increased traffic
• Boundary trees and shrubs would not provide security for residents
• Increased noise and disruption
• Surrounding sewers and drainage too poor to cope with increased footfall
• Threats to wildlife

Peter Williams, a local resident said: “I strongly object these plans for a number of reasons.

“They have said there are no trees on the site but there is, and wild flowers, and they have said you won’t see it from the road but you can!”

Kay Brace added: “The proposed site would create one full-time and two part-time jobs… but there are no guarantees these would go to local people.

“The proposed development will destroy a rare and unique green site and area of outstanding natural beauty.

“Any development will have a devastating, immediate and irreversible effect on wildlife – many of which are extremely rare and endangered species with protection status.”

Sir Edward Leigh. Photo: Lincolnshire Reporter

Gainsborough MP Sir Edward Leigh has also criticised the proposals.

He said: “I am supporting my constituents who have raised a variety of serious concerns with this application.

“Ordinary residents in the area simply do not want the extra visitors and noise foist upon them.

“Were this application to be approved this will put increasing pressure on the roads as well as other local services which may be unable to operate at the same standard they currently do.”

Councillors at West Lindsey District Council will discuss these plans at a later date.