Village holds protest against holiday park plans

"Dunstan says no" signs have been placed in gardens throughout the village

Residents are protesting against plans to build two holiday lets in their village.

Signs have been put up around the village protesting against the development at Dunstan House, in Dunstan, Northumberland.

Craster Parish Council said it was concerned about noise pollution and environmental damage.

The project's architect, Stuart Palmer, said the lets would be a "fantastic addition" to the county which he said had a shortage of "quality" holiday accommodation.

The parish council said a previous application at the same site was rejected by Northumberland County Council last year on the grounds it would adversely impact the local heritage of the village.

Chairman Martin Smith said there were "a number of major concerns".

These included "loss of tranquillity, noise pollution, highways safety, environmental damage and threatening the quality of amenity enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike," he said.

Resident Jackie Reeves said the plans did not take into account the "distinctive character" of Dunstan nor the "very pressing need to ensure the long-term sustainability" of Northumberland coastal villages.

Holiday accommodation 'shortage'

Mr Palmer, who submitted the plans on behalf of Dunstan House's owner, Janet Stansfield, said: "The planning department recommended approval for a previous scheme on the site but this was unsuccessful at the planning committee.

"The new scheme addresses the one concern raised at committee and would be a fantastic addition to the tourism offer in Northumberland, which has a shortage of quality, contemporary purpose built holiday accommodation."

The application shows plans for a swimming pool between two holiday lets with a yoga pod, outdoor kitchen, fire pit and children's areas.

More than 50 objections have been submitted to Northumberland County Council, with nine others supporting the plan.

One letter in favour said the protesters' signs were "rude and unwelcoming" to those visiting the village.