Bid to address concerns against Whitchurch camping site

Chris Huxley’s proposal also includes a motorhome and touring caravan on land to the rear of Hotel Farm in Grindley Brook. A toilet and shower block, hard and soft landscaping, and the installation of a private sewage treatment plant will also be considered by planners.

Submitting a planning, design and access statement on behalf of Mr Huxley, Kirstie Edwards, of Mid West Planning Ltd, said that Shropshire Council’s highways team identified concerns to the proposed access arrangement, specifically in relation to its operational suitability.

“In addition, the Canal and River Trust advised that all built development should be located a minimum of 10 metres from the canal corridor to ensure adequate protection of riparian habitat and to avoid potential disturbance to priority species, including water voles and otters,” said Ms Edwards.

The application was subsequently withdrawn. The latest proposal, said Ms Edwards, provides updated details in relation to the proposed access, and amended location and site plans that address the concerns.

This includes Mr Huxley installing a low-level fence at the end of the site to deter campers from walking onto the bank of the canal, as suggested by the Canal and River Trust.

“The operation of the site can be effectively controlled through the use of appropriately worded planning conditions, including restricting occupation to holiday and short‑stay purposes only and ensuring specific check in and check out times,” said Ms Edwards.

“A condition can also require the site operator to maintain an up‑to‑date register of all visitors, including their home address, and to make this information available to the Local Planning Authority upon request to ensure ongoing compliance.”

Meanwhile, to address the comments of the highways officer, Ms Edwards said that all required supported information has been provided. This includes a full access appraisal with detailed geometry and visibility splays based on vehicle speeds and swept-path analysis.

The site will accommodate 10 tent pitches and approximately 10 season pitches, as well as 10 touring pitches. Check in will from 2pm and check out before midday.

Parking provision will be provided for one vehicle adjacent to each pitch with additional parking for tents on the grass.

The existing access will be retained for pedestrian use, connecting directly to the adjacent footway which leads to the canal.

Meanwhile, it is intended to replace a small temporary toilet and shower unit with a new purpose-built facility.

“By providing additional year-round visitor accommodation, the development will help to support and strengthen rural tourism, which is an important contributor to the local economy,” said Ms Edwards.

“The site’s accessibility to the canal enhances its suitability for tourist accommodation by enabling future visitors to readily access sustainable leisure opportunities without reliance on the private vehicle.”