Proposals made for holiday pods for disadvantaged kids in Lake District
It's currently being considered by officers at the national park authority
Six holiday accommodation pods for disadvantaged children could be placed in an agricultural field if Lake District planners approve the partial change of use of the land application.
It is for a site known as Alma’s Meadow, Smithy Lane, Bowness-on-Windermere, and it is currently being considered by officers at the national park authority.
According to a planning statement the applicant is Julie Eve and it states: “Julie has noticed a lack of holiday accommodation catering for special needs and disadvantaged children in the Lake District National Park , that connects them with nature.
“With this proposal, Julie intends to create a peaceful sanctuary that puts these children in the heart of nature to make them feel included in the natural environment.
“Part of the proposal’s aspirations are to also teach the children local skills, nature skills, and introduce them to animals through animal-assisted therapy.
“The intention is to also have visiting experiences such as birds of prey displays, archery, etc, for the staying visitors only.”
According to the report the site is an agricultural meadow located on the A592 and it adds: “To the north of the site boundary is a small area of woodland beyond which lies the narrow road of Smithy Lane.
“Beyond this are houses erected in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as more houses to the north-east.
“Facing the eastern site boundary are two dwellings, Woodhurst, which is nestled into the landscape; and Old Belfield which is a grade II listed building that sits in a prominent position commanding great views over the lake and surrounding hills.
“These houses are an important part of the area’s character, being part of a series of hilltop villas and mansions overlooking the lake.
“To the south of Old Belfield is a lawn and woodland, and then another large house which sits below Alma’s Meadow.
“To the southern boundary of the meadow is an open field, south of which are two houses with gardens. Windermere Marina is situated to the south-west of the site, and a camping and caravan club site sits on the opposite side of the A592 to the west.
“The site is outside the Bowness Conservation Area and within the English Lake District World Heritage Site and Area of Outstanding Beauty.”