Concern over plans for Caravan and Motorhome Club site near Belvoir Castle

If approved, the site will be within walking distance of Belvoir Castle

Concerns have been raised over plans for a new glamping and caravan park in the shadow of Belvoir Castle.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club submitted its application for the site in Sedgebrook Road, Woolsthorpe, near Grantham, to South Kesteven District Council in February.

The group said there would be "significant economic benefits".

However, dozens have objected, including Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and Heritage Lincolnshire.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club wants to create 15 glamping pods and 150 pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents.

The plans include a play area, toilet blocks, a reception building and staff accommodation.

John Buxton, who has lived near the castle in Woolsthorpe for 33 years and runs an advice and information website for camping enthusiasts and motorhome owners, said the proposed development was "too big" for the area.

"There's road issues, wildlife issues, access issues, safety issues, just a load of problems and questions that people have," he said.

"All traffic from the main A52 will be cutting through, and the road is dangerous enough as it is. This would make it desperately bad and [it would] be a recipe for disaster."

'Hazard for road users'

Commenting on the application via South Kesteven District Council's planning portal, Paul Sheardown, an arable farmer, said the scheme would "create excessive risk" by increasing traffic along already busy roads.

"Access to the site is almost directly opposite my farm entrance, creating a hazard for road users and pedestrians" he added.

Heritage Lincolnshire said there was "insufficient information" on potential impacts on archaeological remains should they be found during construction.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club cited "significant economic benefits" to meet the council's visitor economy objectives, with planning documents forecasting an annual spend of £3.88 million based on previous "extensive experience in the sector".

A spokesperson for the group said: "Holiday parks and campsites have strong ties to the local communities in which they are based, whether that's through employment, supporting local marketing or fundraising initiatives."

A public consultation over the proposals runs until 13 April.