Issue - meetings

Members were asked to consider application number 141442 for change of use of land for siting of caravans (lodges) and proposed recreation pond with 20 fishing pegs, to include site levelling using excavated material, located at Sunnyside Up Farm Shop, Poplar Farm. This was a resubmission of 140707. There were no updates from the Officer and so the Chairman invited the registered speakers to address the Committee.

It was heard that the Parish Council had registered to speak but had not provided any details to be able to join the MS Teams meeting. They had also not provided a statement to be read on their behalf. The Chairman subsequently requested that the next register speaker, Ms Kelly Casswell, daughter of the applicant, should address the Committee. Ms Casswell made the following comments.

“I’m the applicant’s daughter, Kelly. I would like to thank members for their previous comments, which we have taken on board.

1. This application meets planning policies as did the previous one for 50 Holiday Lodges, which the officer recommended approval.

2. The reduction of Lodges has nearly halved and although the application states caravans, the lodges are natural timber which blends into the surroundings. Not white caravans.

3. With regards to the AONB, we have personally walked the Viking Way and the Lodges aren’t visible.

4. The Farmshop is highly sustainable which provides over 25 Lincolnshire products and supplies local businesses with Lincolnshire Meat.

5. Due to Covid-19, the first phase of 15 Holiday Lodges has been delayed. The park will be opening in Spring 2021, with firm bookings already made through cottages.com.

6. We have 16 applicants on the waiting list for cleaning and reception jobs. Rural UK holidays are in high demand and with this site been in a tourist area, this application has so much to offer.

7. I’d like to point out that Laura Burgin from West Lindsey Enforcement has been for a site visit, the renewing of fencing, gateways and signage is all compliant with planning.

8. I stand for the younger generation and Market Rasen. Our site is in a unique location between Willingham and Walesby Woods which already attracts walkers and cyclists all year round. The tourism we will generate will be a massive boost to the Racecourse, Golf Course, the new Leisure Centre and regenerate the high street.  Both myself and my brother are hugely ambitious, ready and waiting to serve the community, together with visitors from further afield on a larger scale.

9. I personally have worked in the tourism sector for 11 years and my other holiday businesses are 98% occupied. This development will be 100% successful.

Thank you for your time.”

The Chairman invited the next speaker, Ms Lynda Bowen, to address the Committee.

“The decision notice for the application which was granted in 2019 for 15 lodges (App Ref: 139788) contained a condition (Condition 6) which stated ‘the maximum number of log cabins on the site shall not exceed 15’.  The reason  ...  view the full minutes text for item 53