Glamping pods plan dropped after objections

A planning application for glamping pods and motorhome pitches in Arran has been withdrawn.

The proposal for the glamping site near Machrie sparked more than 30 objections with one objector describing it as a ‘nightmare’ and another claiming it would spoil the beauty of nearby standing stones and the King’s Cave.

Angus Smith applied for permission to erect six glamping pods, 22 motorhome pitches, a clubhouse and other facilities at Ashlar Farm, Machrie.

As reported in the Banner in February, a supporting statement lodged with North Ayrshire Council planners said: ‘The proposed King’s Cave Glamping site will provide a new and exciting accommodation option to the Machrie area and Arran as a whole.

‘Demand for this type of accommodation is increasing throughout the country, especially with the advent of Covid social distancing requirements.’

It was intended the site would be among the best in the area with the glamping pods constructed of timber.

It was to be located adjacent to a trail heading to the coastal King’s Cave and less than one kilometre from the Machrie Moor Standing Stones.

But people lodged a raft of objections voicing concerns over traffic and a possible impact on nearby ancient stone circles.

A neighbour said: ‘The application site is within close proximity to the Machrie Moor Standing Stones and King’s Cave and this application fails to recognise the potential archaeological importance of the area.’

One holidaymaker said: ‘The idyllic setting and tranquility of this area is what draws visitors and myself to this spot and the addition of 22 motorhomes and a glamping park with associated facilities will ruin the natural beauty of the place and the beautiful unspoiled scenery.

‘The history and beauty of King’s Cave and the Standing Stones will be ruined with this modern development.’

Another visitor slammed the potential development as a ‘proposed nightmare’ and pointed out it would be served by a minor road with ‘virtually no traffic’.