AN APPEAL Inspector ruled against a proposal to build 41 holiday lodges on a former caravan site near Lydney in the Forest of Dean. The decision, which upheld the local authority’s rejection, means the appellant must cover the costs of the appeal.

The original plans, submitted by Zebra Landscape Architects on behalf of agent Savills in March 2023, outlined the development of 41 luxury self-catering lodges and glamping pitches at Bearse Common on a 2.5-hectare site.

The proposal, made by applicant and landowner Jason Smith of Tremlo Ltd, would have removed 60 touring caravan pitches and demolished existing facilities to make way for the new structures.

Despite being designed with a timber exterior and dark grey tiled pitched roofs, and offering amenities such as parking spaces and timber verandahs for each lodge, the plans faced significant opposition from St Briavels Parish Council.

Concerns were raised about the development’s impact on the landscape and the nearby Slade Brook, a nationally significant site.

There were also worries about potential sewage contamination and the risk of the lodges becoming permanent homes over time, contributing to urbanisation.

Natural England voiced similar concerns over the Slade Brook but noted that if mitigation measures were followed, it would not oppose the development.

The Appeal Inspector considered the economic benefits of the development, such as job creation and increased visitor spending. However, they determined that these advantages did not outweigh the harm to the landscape’s character.

The location, within the Wye Valley National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, was deemed unsuitable for the permanent structures.

The inspector concluded that, while the proposal supported rural tourism, it would not respect the character of the countryside as required by the planning framework.

No details were given regarding the costs awarded to the Forest of Dean District Council in the ruling.