Bridgnorth glamping business appeal rejected by inspector

You are viewing content from Sunshine Radio Ludlow. Would you like to make this your preferred location?

Wednesday, 26 September 2018 07:33

By Emily Lloyd - Local Democracy Reporter

An appeal for a glamping business on a green belt near Bridgnorth has been rejected by the Government’s planning inspector.

Mark David Steele had hoped the previous decision by Shropshire Council to refused his retrospective plans at Highfield Farm in Hilton would be overturned.

But inspector Thomas Hatfield said it would “fail to preserve” the green belt.

He noted: “The development has introduced new buildings on to land that was previously open and used for agriculture. In my view, it constitutes an encroachment into the countryside, and therefore conflicts with one of the purposes of including land within the green belt.

“In this regard, there is nothing in the National Planning Framework to
suggest this purpose applies only to larger developments.

“In addition, I consider that the development fails to preserve the openness of the green belt.

“I conclude the proposal is inappropriate development in the green belt.”

The plans would have seen the siting of three temporary wooden structures, a bell tent, kitchen area, and toilet and shower block, plus a change of use of land at the farm.

It was turned down by case officer Sara Jones on the grounds it would be “inappropriate development” on the green belt.

She also said the benefits could not outweigh the environmental harm.

It had received objections from the parish council.

However, Mr Steele said as a farm diversification it would bring a “significant source of income” to the business.

He also said Shropshire Council had granted consent for a number of other developments in the surrounding area.

Mr Hatfield countered these were not in the green belt and none was for new visitor accommodation.