A CARAVAN park in Dalbeattie will be expanded despite strong opposition to the plans from members of the public.
Dalbeattie Forest Lodges and Caravan Park owner Gordon Hoey sought permission from Dumfries and Galloway Council to install another 31 static caravan pitches at the popular holiday spot within the Solway Coast Regional Scenic Area.
There were 142 objections to the plans lodged with the council, along with a petition containing 152 signatures against the proposal.
However, the final decision rested with councillors sitting on the council’s planning committee as they considered the application on Wednesday.
Following a lengthy debate, opinion was split over the size, scale, and suitability of the proposals.
Annandale North Councillor Stephen Thompson proposed that the expansion plans be approved, with the condition that fencing is installed around the perimeter of the site.
This was seconded by Annandale East and Eskdale Councillor Archie Dryburgh.
However, Castle Douglas Councillor Pauline Drysdale put forward an amendment for the refusal of the plans, saying she was “not comfortable with scale, massing, and size” of the development.
She added: “I just think it needs to be a smaller application.”
This was backed by Lochar Councillor Maureen Johnstone, which meant that a vote had to be taken.
Ultimately, the motion calling for the caravan park’s extension to be approved won the vote 9-6.
The 1.91 hectare site being considered for development has been described as “unused rough land with a man-made pond” which was previously granted planning permission as part of a 16 person hostel development to provide accommodation for mountain bikers and walkers in 7Stanes Forest.
While there has been strong objections from the public, council planning case officer Toril Glendinning recommended that the extension be approved.
Owner Mr Hoey can now proceed with his plans to form an additional 31 static caravan pitches.
