Get ready for an exciting new development in rural Preston! A former golf course is set to be transformed into a stunning holiday village. Town hall planning officials are recommending approval for the redevelopment of the Goosnargh Golf Club site. If given the green light, the picturesque countryside plot on Inglewhite Road will be home to 130 holiday lodges and 26 touring caravan pitches.
The proposed holiday village will also feature fantastic amenities, including a central facilities building with a swimming pool and tennis courts. However, not everyone is thrilled about the plans. Nine nearby residents have raised objections, expressing various concerns.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, believes that the planning application misrepresents the character of the former golf course. They argue that the site is not derelict, but rather a beautiful green space filled with trees, running water, and even deer. They worry that the planning committee may be swayed by the misleading description.
Despite the objections, the plans for the 26-hectare site continue to impress. Alongside the holiday lodges and caravan pitches, there will be a building to service the tourer facilities, a welcome kiosk, and 14 office pods. The proposal aligns with the Central Lancashire-wide planning strategy, which supports caravan and camping uses on suitable sites with proven demand.
However, locals have voiced their concerns, citing a lack of need and the potential dangers of increased traffic on Inglewhite Road. They fear that the combination of speeding cars and maneuvering caravans could create a hazardous situation. Additionally, the absence of pavements poses a risk to pedestrians, including tourists seeking a leisurely stroll.
The residents hope that the developers will preserve the public footpath that runs through the site and respect the dark sky zone. They also express concerns about the long-term plans for the land, questioning whether the caravan park’s business model is sustainable and whether it could pave the way for future housing developments.
To address environmental considerations, the landscaping plans for the plot include extensive tree planting, both to enhance existing young trees and compensate for those that need to be removed. The proposal also promises improvements to existing ponds and the creation of new ones. Additionally, the site will be adorned with wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs to provide natural screening.
Local residents have been given the opportunity to comment on an amendment to the application, which corrected the number of lodges from 127 to 130. The final decision rests with the councillors, who may delegate authority to the Director of Development and Housing at Preston City Council to consider any further representations.
Exciting times lie ahead for Preston as this lakeside holiday village project awaits approval. It’s a chance to transform a former golf course into a vibrant and attractive destination for holidaymakers. With its stunning natural surroundings and top-notch amenities, this new development promises to be a hit. Let’s hope that all concerns are addressed, and the vision becomes a reality!