Holiday park in Staffordshire refused over fears for environment

The developers want to built 250 lodges, some with a lakeside view

Plans for a 250 lodge-holiday park have been refused over environmental concerns.

Laver Leisure applied to build lodges, a water sports centre, footpaths and a cafe in the Staffordshire Moorlands.

One councillor said the plans failed to protect the area's biodiversity and would cause problems on the narrow roads near the Whiston site.

Developers said the site's sustainability and accessibility was considered at the outline stage.

Councillor Paul Roberts added its position, on the former Moneystone Quarry near the A52, would increase traffic problems in the area, which was already congested due to vehicles travelling to Alton Towers.

Some residents worry the holiday park will be larger than the two neighbouring villages put together

Jon Suckley, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said: "The principle of a high quality leisure development for up to 250 lodges at the site was established in the 2016 outline permission.

"Site access was considered at the outline stage and no objections were raised by the local highways authority."

Some residents also objected saying the park would be larger than the combined size of its two neighbouring villages, Whiston and Oakamoor.

Laver Leisure has over 1,800 holiday homes across the county and estimated the site would generate around £1m per year, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The site was rejected by seven votes to five by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

It is not known whether the company will modify plans or lodge an appeal against the refusal.