Leisure retreat plan near controversial resort site

The proposed development will include 23 holiday lodges, 10 glamping pods and 24 caravan pitches

Plans to build a new holiday park near land earmarked for a controversial resort have been submitted.

Queensland Country Park Ltd wants to build a "sustainable leisure retreat" off Hawthwaite Lane, on Roanhead, in Cumbria.

The proposed site is next to land earmarked for the Roanhead Lodge Resort, which has faced objections from residents and environmental groups.

Queensland said it would restrict development to areas with a "low habitat value" as much as possible.

If approved by Westmorland and Furness Council, the leisure retreat would contain 23 holiday lodges, 10 glamping pods, 24 caravan pitches and a number of buildings.

The site would have a maximum capacity of 208 bed spaces and would attract about 6,000 to 9,000 guests a year, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Eco-friendly lodges

The applicant distanced itself from plans for the Roanhead Lodge Resort and added the site did not include a bar, restaurant, cafe, indoor sports facilities or any indoor event areas.

"The applicant merely wishes to provide eco-friendly lodge accommodation and touring caravan facilities, of appropriate scale, for visitors and local people wishing to enjoy the unique experience and tranquillity associated with Roanhead," the application said.

Developer ILM group has lodged plans to build 233 lodges on a neighbouring site.

The Roanhead Lodge Resort proposals have faced opposition with Barrow Town Council labelling the development  "totally unsuitable" for the area.

Friends of the Lake District, Cumbria Wildlife Trust and the National Trust have objected to the proposals, while a petition objecting to the plans amassed nearly 8,500 signatures.

The plans have been backed by some businesses and tourism bosses.

ILM's plans were scaled back from 450 lodges following opposition from residents.