Response from Holgate Caravan Parks , C/o Steven Abbott Associates
1. Holgate Caravan Parks , C/o Steven Abbott Associates : 6 Dec 2018 09:50:00
Please make your comments in the box below. When referring to the schedule, please include the appropriate reference number e.g. MM1_AONB.
Arnside & Silverdale AONB / AONB DPD Main Modifications Consultation - MM8_AONB
These representations are submitted on behalf of Holgates Caravan Parks.
They primarily relate to MM8_AONB which in turn relates to draft policy Policy AS11 – Camping, Caravan and Visitor Accommodation.
It was our understanding from discussions at the hearing sessions that the LPA were to discuss the amendments to this policy with us before the main modifications were published. This did not occur and the modifications that are currently proposed to the policy do not address the concerns that have been raised on behalf of our client.
The previous comments raised on behalf of our client during the examination process are not addressed by the proposed main modifications. Our view remains that in its present form policy AS11 cannot be considered sound due to its overly restrictive nature.
In terms of MM8_AONB, the first change is to replace the word ‘screened’ with ‘developed’. Notwithstanding our issues with the principle of policy AS11, this change is welcomed because it accepts that parts of sites which are not currently screened could potentially be redeveloped.
The modification also introduces a requirement for any redevelopment within existing caravan parks to be submitted as part of master-planned improvements for the whole site and introduces a number of criteria that any masterplan should cover. We have significant concerns about this modification because it places an onerous burden on operators looking at any, even minor, redevelopment of an existing site, or part of a site.
The modifications proposed do not address our client’s concerns about the overly restrictive nature of the policy. As set out previously, our client is one of the largest employers within the AONB and to ensure the future sustainability of the operations, it is vital that there is scope for their sites to adapt to changing markets and requirements. The concern is that the policy as currently proposed could impact on our client’s ability to do this and therefore threaten the long term future of their interests.
