Caution around new tourism 'masterplan' for estate

The Bolton Abbey estate is owned by the Duke of Devonshire

Councillors have reacted with caution to plans to further develop a historic estate described as a "jewel in the crown".

The owners of Bolton Abbey have presented a masterplan for future tourism to North Yorkshire Council.

Consultants who prepared the document for the Devonshire Group suggested developments would include a new hotel, cafe, playground and staff accommodation.

The masterplan was discussed by councillors representing Skipton and Ripon this week, with some present warning that new buildings must not "spoil" the estate's character.

The estate is such a large concern that it has its own policy within the Craven district's Local Plan, which guides what development can take place.

Owned by the Cavendish family, Dukes of Devonshire, since 1753, it includes the Grade I-listed ruins of Bolton Priory, a 15th Century hunting lodge and 52 other listed buildings.

The Devonshire Group said that its visitor offer was not reaching its full potential due to issues including limited hotel capacity, staff being unable to live nearby because of high property prices, a lack of play facilities for children and poor energy efficiency.

The estate includes the ruins of Bolton Priory

The report recommended a "careful and sensitive" upgrading of its infrastructure.

The council has been asked to decide whether to accept or reject the masterplan at an executive meeting later this month. If approved, it would mean planning consent for future proposals would be more likely to be granted.

Its suggestions included a new hotel to complement The Devonshire Arms, new terraced cottages along the old A59 for staff or visitor stays, and the conversion of cottages near the kitchen garden to provide extra accommodation.

Other ideas included a farm shop, cycle hub, cafe, and a play and education zone at the entrance to the village which would provide indoor facilities for families, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

'Iconic setting'

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said that councillor Robert Heseltine told the meeting that the area around Bolton Bridge off the A59, where some of the new buildings were planned, “must not be sacrificed at the altar of commercial tourism".

Mr Heseltine added: “Bolton Abbey is renowned as one of the finest iconic settings of the Yorkshire Dales. The Devonshire family must be congratulated for its stewardship over many centuries, so please do not spoil it now.”

Wharfedale councillor Richard Foster said any development needed to be sympathetic to the site’s rural setting.

Mr Foster told the meeting: “I do understand we have to move forward, we’re not a museum.

"But without the farms and sheep and cattle to create the landscape the walls fall down. Something needs to guarantee the farming economy as existing businesses are vital.”

Another councillor, Andy Brown, said the strategy should do more to discourage car use on the estate.

Simon Myers, who sits on the executive, said the document must not be taken as “cart blanche” to approve any future planning applications.

He added: “The custodians did not create this beauty, it was the Augustinian monks. We’ll be keeping an eye on you.”

North Yorkshire Council's executive meets on 17 September to debate the masterplan.

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