Calls for glamping pods in North Norfolk to be rejected over traffic fears
They could be torn down
Glamping pods that are currently in use without proper permission could be ordered to be torn down over traffic fears.
Plans to relocate the two pods on Shrublands Farm Camping Site in Northrepps have been recommended for refusal by North Norfolk District Council’s (NNDC) planning officers.
The scheme, which is set to go before NNDC’s planning committee later this week, also includes a new footpath to the site.
A report to the committee said: “The two glamping pods are currently in use unlawfully, without the benefit of planning permission within the applicant’s farm site on Hungary Hill. This application is therefore seeking to relocate and regularise the pods.”
The pod would be moved to Craft Lane, which is already used as a holiday site, with space for five caravans and 10 tents.
But ahead of Thursday’s meeting, Norfolk County Council’s highways team objected to the plans.
The team argued that Craft Lane is single-track, provides “poor access” and would be inconvenient for neighbours.
But the scheme has seen the support of the local parish council and Angie Fitch-Tillet, councillor for Northrepps.
Ms Fitch-Tillet said that the footpath, which would link to a paved part of Craft Lane, would provide safe pedestrian access to the village and the development encourages tourism away from current hotspots, which should be welcome.
However, NNDC’s planning officers have recommended the scheme is refused.
They said: “The scheme would result in the introduction of new build tourist accommodation on land designated as ‘countryside’.
“Council policies state that proposals for new build holiday accommodation in the countryside will be treated as though they are permanent residential dwellings and will not be permitted.”
They also said the glamping pods would be unacceptable development within an area designated an ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’ and echoed the Highway’s team’s concerns over Craft Lane access.