Council defends decision to oppose caravan park proposal

The decision of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council to oppose plans for 45 new static caravans at Waterside Holiday Park has been defended by officials, the Dorset Daily Echo reports.

Waterside had hoped to convert land used to accommodate touring caravans into an area for static caravans, but the council rejected the application due to fears that the move would have a negative aesthetic impact on the surrounding area.

It was also noted that the conversion would reduce the facilities available to holidaymakers with touring caravans.

"There is no dispute as to the importance of caravan sites for the local tourist industry but new or additional areas for caravans, particularly static caravans, must be confined to suitable locations," Matthew Page, speaking on behalf of the council, told the Dorset Daily Echo.

"This proposal will have an adverse and unacceptable effect on the highly valuable surrounding landscape.

However, Waterside has appealed the decision and a public inquiry is now under way.

Park representative Richard Humphreys said the visual impact on the surrounding area would be minimised through the use of screens and a planting programme.

Caravanners are advised to secure adequate caravan insurance before they set off on their travels.

08/10/2008 18:16:12