A ‘glamping’ site in a rural beauty spot has been given the go-ahead.
Councillors agreed that Steven Hinchliffe, of Bank House Farm at Jackson Bridge, can build 18 camping pods on land at his farm, plus an amenity block on a site off Mill Heal Lane.
There will be nine family-sized pods and nine standard-sized pods of 3.9m by 2.6m.
Councillors were split on the plans – with three apiece for and against, so it was approved on the casting vote of the chairman, Clr Steve Hall.
Kirklees received 45 letters of objection and two in support of the plans.
Resident Andrew Hartley said he was concerned about the sewerage system affecting the local spring water supply that feeds his home.
Chris Wilkinson said it was an “area of national beauty where people travel for miles around to soak up the views” and that those views would be ruined by the pods.
Jeremy Child, of Acumen Architects and agent for the applicant, said: “It has been very carefully considered by officers.
“The kitchen sink has been thrown at this by objectors who don’t want this near their houses.
“People will come to enjoy the countryside – it is purely family orientated.”
Clrs Tony Brice and Bill Armed (both Conservative) and Clr Andrew Pinnock (Lib Dem) voted against the plans, while Clrs Steve Hall, Paul Kane and Mohan Sokhal (all Labour) voted for it.
