Castle managers submit plans for cabins retreat
Plans to build a cabin retreat in the grounds of Leeds Castle have been revealed.
Bosses have submitted proposals for four waterside holiday homes at the attraction near Hollingbourne.
If approved, it will be erected in woodlands, alongside the Great Water.
Planning documents submitted to Maidstone council said: “Leeds Castle has the perfect foundation to create a retreat that delivers a unique, experience-led reconnection to nature. “From the beautiful picturesque grounds teaming with wildlife, to the working biodiverse landscape and the magnificent historical buildings, it is uniquely positioned to present a distinctive, exclusive retreat offering. Through the introduction of modular high quality, design-led, carbon neutral Koto units, our considered approach falls in line with the purposeful development strategy to new accommodation that will also drive other economic benefits.
“By investing in an additional range of experiences to attract, inform, and inspire visitors, it will encourage them to stay for longer in the area and thereby increase their contribution to the local economy.
“The proposed development will not have a detrimental impact on the physical architectural and historical values of this important heritage asset, although it will not enhance the heritage values or preservation of the historical site.” A design statement for the plans concluded: “The location and brand positioning of Leeds Castle are so much more than just the house and grounds.
“They are a visitor attraction receiving over 500,000 visitors each year, but they are also a forester, a farmer, an employer, a landlord and passionate conservationists. With a huge range of immersive experiences that connects visitors to the community from local food produce available to local spa products available in the cabins, there will be a continued focus on reflecting the local destination.”
Visit maidstone.gov.uk and search reference 23/500304/FULL for more.