Plans to extend Babell caravan park & add log cabins would ‘boost economy’

Plans to extend a caravan park near Holywell will help to boost the local economy, it has been claimed.

The owners of The Ridings Caravan and Camping Park in Babell have submitted proposals to provide an extra four touring caravan pitches, a holiday static home and three glamping pods.

They also want to add two log cabins, two chalets and a replacement toilet and shower block to the site.

In a statement prepared on behalf of owner Bryn Parry, it says the development will provide ‘high quality’ accommodation afor visitors to the area.

It states: “The Ridings is a small holding with outbuildings that has been a successful caravan and camping site for many years.

“The current owners purchased the property in early 2017.

“This proposal is being submitted to help to sustain the family business and rural economy by way of jobs and income.

“The family seek to expand their tourism business to meet the wider demand for different styles and types of accommodation and providing all year-round facilities.

“The static caravan sector is known to be extremely important to the tourism economy in Flintshire and especially in the north of the county.

“The proposal will continue and increasingly make a substantial contribution to the local and regional economy and will provide high quality accommodation and facilities for visitors to the area.”

The original proposals for the site included plans for 20 touring
caravan pitches, 15 static holiday home pitches and six glamping pods.

However, they were altered to address concerns raised about the density of the development during a public consultation.

The architects said: “Careful consideration has been given to all the comments and concerns received, the applicant has made the decision to reduce the density of the accommodation and change the type of accommodation proposed within the development.

“The omission of the holiday homes and static caravans does cause the applicant some concern, as these were clearly welcomed by the planning authority and seen high quality accommodation for visitors.

“The applicant is prepared to hold meaningful discussions with the authority if the current mix of accommodation is questioned.”

Comments are currently being invited on the proposals via the Flintshire Council website.

The authority is aiming to make a decision on them by 10 January 2018.