Caravan Park Expansion Approved Near Longtown
Plans to expand Camelot Caravan Park near Longtown have been approved by Cumberland Council.
The development will add 19 caravan units to land beside the existing holiday park, which is located off the A7 between Longtown and Carlisle, close to Sandysyke.
Planning permission was granted on Monday, 10 August.
Where Will the New Caravans Be Located?
The expansion will use an area of flat, grassed land on the north-east side of the existing caravan park.
The site is bordered by woodland to the north, the current caravan park to the east, an internal access road to the south and the A7 to the west.
The proposed layout will follow the spacing already used between units elsewhere on the park. Access to the extension will also be provided through the park’s existing internal road network.
Planning documents said the main entrance onto the A7 provides suitable visibility for vehicles travelling to and from the site.
Plans Reduced From Earlier Proposal
Earlier consultation documents described an expansion capable of accommodating up to 30 units. However, the approved scheme reported by Cumberland Council now covers 19 units.
When Arthuret Parish Council considered the earlier plans, councillors did not object to the proposed number of caravans. They also welcomed plans to plant more trees around the development.
However, the parish council raised concerns about the park’s entrance and exit. It supported highway recommendations calling for clear visibility splays to help drivers see approaching traffic, pedestrians and other possible obstructions.
New Landscaping Planned
The extension will be enclosed by existing hedges, mature trees and timber fencing.
Further planting is also planned to strengthen the boundaries and reduce the visual impact of the additional caravans. This should help screen the new units from the A7 and surrounding land.
The planning report concluded that the site was already well screened and would not have a significant effect on neighbouring properties.
Most units within the existing park are restricted to use as holiday accommodation under conditions attached to an earlier planning permission. Planning documents indicated that a similar restriction could be placed on the new units, preventing them from becoming permanent homes.
Expansion of Established Holiday Site
Camelot Caravan Park has operated from the site for several years and has previously received permission to expand.
Council planners considered the new development to be a suitable extension to an established tourism business. Its location also provides visitors with direct road links to Longtown, Carlisle and other parts of north Cumbria.
The approval will allow the park to increase its accommodation while keeping the development within its existing boundaries and surrounding vegetation.
