Northumberland holiday park set for approval

A proposal to build a new holiday park in Northumberland, creating up to 130 new jobs, looks set to be approved despite objections from residents and community groups.The hybrid application for Chevington Castle Holiday Park seeks full planning permission for a new leisure destination which would accommodate up to 275 static caravans, with a further 200 spaces for touring units and tents, at a 250-acre site north of Widdrington.Developer Callaly Leisure wishes to construct a reception building housing a visitor centre, swimming pool and spa, with its castle design an homage to Northumberland’s numerous historic fortresses.With the site set on a natural lake, several landscape enhancements are planned to allow for water-based leisure activities. Outdoor and indoor play areas, catering facilities, a toilet and shower block, and a workshop building also feature in the plans.In addition, outline planning permission is sought for a second phase of development, comprising bases for a further 475 holiday homes.The developer, which owns and operates two other holiday caravan parks in Carlisle and Rothbury, has faced objections from local residents.Widdrington Village Parish Council complained that the development was listed in the wrong ward and parish when the application was originally submitted in late 2017.This error was not corrected until after the proposal was first scheduled on the Strategic Planning Committee’s November agenda. This meant many residents who could be impacted were not previously aware of the project.A decision was delayed, with the parish council calling for a “proper and meaningful consultation period”.Concerns have since been raised by the parish council about the increased traffic such an attraction would bring, and the project’s impact on wildlife.However, the recommendation is still due to be decided at the committee’s meeting on 4 December, with a recommendation to grant planning permission.