DEVELOPERS have defended their decision to build a series of log cabins in Delamere Forest and say the plans will help to ‘protect it for generations to come’.
Plans for 78 luxury holiday lodges at Kingswood, a new visitor hub, 270 car park spaces and a new access road around the Linmere area of the forest have been proposed by Forest Holidays and the Forestry Commission following a consultation period last year.
Since the plans were submitted, residents’ group Communities Against Delamere’s Destruction, have campaigned against the plans, fearing they will change the way the popular forest can be enjoyed.
However, both Forest Holidays and the Forestry Commission believe their plans will help to keep the site as an important recreational destination for many years to come.
David Williamson, from the Forestry Commission, said: “Delamere Forest is a much-loved public asset with the outdated infrastructure currently accommodating circa 750,000 visitors per annum.
“These facilities and infrastructure require significant investment which is not available from the public purse.
“The forest is used by many people who all have expectations of what it should provide.
“Our task is to balance these demands, both physically and economically, and to manage the forest sustainably for future generations.
“The proposals accord with national and local policy and guidance and are robust, well founded and offer tangible social, environmental and economic benefits to all users of Delamere forest and the wider sub region.”
Richard Palmer, of Forest Holidays, added: “We have similar log cabin developments in eight different Forestry Commission forests in the UK, including several national parks and other sensitive locations, which are all very successful in providing a high quality visitor experience, balancing sensitive and ecologically sound development while delivering new jobs and stimulating growth in the rural economies.
“The proposal will support and underpin local businesses, stimulate significant additional spending in the area, improve facilities for local, day and staying visitors, and develop the public asset of the forest in a manner which will enhance, secure and protect it for generations to come.”
What do you think about the plans? Email emma.rigby@nqnw.co.uk
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