Caravan holiday park gets approval

PLANS FOR a holiday park with 420 caravans that could bring millions into an East Riding village’s economy have been passed by councillors.

East Riding Council’s Planning Committee approved the park, to be built off Hornsea Road in Skipsea, after hearing it could boost the village’s tourism and create around 70 jobs.

An agent for applicant MB Goodwin told the committee the company had a proven track record of running award- winning caravan parks in the area.

But Neil Blenkhorn, a local farmer who spoke in objection to the plans, said the increase in traffic, pressure on local services and noise from the park outweighed any economic benefits.

The parish councils of Skipsea and neighbouring Bewholme also objected, claiming the park would leave roads unable to cope as it drew thousands of holidaymakers into the area.

The applicant’s agent told the committee: “The park would bring an estimated £ 4.3m into the local area, create 71 direct jobs and a further 41 indirectly in other local services.

“These benefits must be given substantial weight because the tourism sector needs support now more than ever.”

Plans approved by the committee include a clubhouse, swimming pool, bar, restaurant and lake for water sports and activities. They also include 420 static caravans, which the applicant said would be built by local manufacturers.

Councillors passed the plans on the condition that a fence was put up on the border with Mr Blenkhorn’s farm and that the applicant must tell visitors to stick to main roads.

Coun David Tucker, who chairs the committee, said the plans would meet a demand for tourism, which drives the area’s economy. He added: “We hope people will be public spirited when using the roads but there’s very little we can do.”