An appeal by Lightwater Valley Attractions Ltd against Harrogate Borough Council's refusal of permission for the development of 340 accommodation units was heard when a Planning Inspectorate inquiry was held in Knaresborough this week.

today's market

Acting on behalf of the company, barrister Stephen Whale said: "Lightwater Valley is at something of a crossroads. It faces an uncertain future in the market of today and the proposed development is a way to secure its future."

An application to allow 204 caravans and 136 lodges on the proposed site just outside North Stainley was turned down by Harrogate Council's planning committee in July last year – despite a recommendation for approval by the council's own planning officers.

The committee said the 18 hectare site was in an isolated and unsustainable location in open countryside and would be visually intrusive so went against Government guidance and the council's own policy.

'significant objections'

Acting on behalf of the council, barrister Paul Brown said: "It is the council's case that there are significant policy objections to a proposal of this scale in this location and, accordingly, the proposal should only be allowed if there is some compelling reason for it.

"We remain unconvinced that there is any justification for a proposal of this scale."

Key issues in the appeal include the visual impact of such a development and its effect on the landscape. Planning Inspector Kath Ellison heard witnesses making the case for and against upholding the decision of the council planning committee.

economic benefits

Among those supporting Lightwater Valley's appeal at the hearing was the theme park's founder, landowner Robert Staveley, who urged the inspector to take note of the economic benefits and employment which the development would bring.

Another issue was whether extra car use generated by the resort would impact on the surrounding area.

spare capacity

Witness Nick Bond, a civil engineer, told the inquiry a study had shown there was significant spare capacity on the road network except at the Clock Tower junction, in Ripon, on weekday evenings.

But he said the study also suggested the traffic light sequence was preventing the junction from operating at its full capacity.

The evidence will now be considered by the Planning Inspector before a ruling is issued by the Secretary of State.