Plans to triple holiday park's size approved

Haystax had initially been intended as a farm experience for SEND families

Plans to almost triple the number of lodges at a countryside holiday park, which nearby residents criticised as "hideous", have been approved.

Durham County Council has given permission for 33 new lodge pitches to be created at Haystax Holiday Park, near Consett, as part of renovation plans by the site's new owners.

Neil Hunter, a local farmer, told the planning committee residents had bemoaned "looking at this hideous, industrial caravan site".

Councillor said although they sympathised with objectors, the development would boost tourism in the region. Visit County Durham also supported the application.

The development at Woodlands Park Farm in Knitsley was initially planned as a farm experience centre and lodge park for families with special educational needs and disabilities (Send).

However, the business failed and had to be repurposed, the Local Democracy Reporting service said.

'Huge change'

Site owner Sunset Leisure Development now plans to increase its size from the current 17 pitches.

Peter Lead, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said facilities to support people with Send would still be provided.

He told the Reform-led council: "Haystax was a partly developed business that failed. Left alone, it would have remained as a scar on the countryside."

He added the "high quality" development would create 13 jobs.

Mr Hunter said local concerns had been highlighted by an objection from Lanchester Parish Council.

He added: "It has catastrophically changed from what it was originally planned for, and when it was sold, [the previous owners] were under the impression it would continue in the same vein."

Councillor Kenny Hope, Reform UK member for Delves Lane, said the council had a "responsibility to cater for Send individuals".

"This will have a positive impact on local facilities," he added.

Councillor Craig Martin, Liberal Democrat for North Lodge, said although he agreed caravans could be a "blot" on the countryside, the site had a "lot of screening".

He added: "We have beautiful countryside out there, it is an untapped resource, and we don't have enough holiday accommodation to attract visitors to County Durham."