Concerns have been raised by a local business after North East Lincolnshire Council unveiled a proposal to transform part of the Boating Lake car park in Cleethorpes into a motorhome parking area.
Plans were submitted in 2023 for a “change of use to create a formalised motorhome parking area” for up to 10 motorhomes for short stays of up to 48 hours.
Associated works would also be carried out, including the creation of a ‘caravan effluent disposal unit’, which would be installed at the Boating Lake toilets. Additionally, wooden telephone poles and metal signage would be erected, along with a possible resurfacing of the area.
The application has drawn concern from residents and local businesses, one of which is the neighbouring Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway, who has one of their facilities adjacent to the proposal’s location along King’s Road.
In a letter issued to the planning department in 2023, Peter Bryant and John Kerr, directors of Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway, explained their objections to the proposals, stating that it creates a “number of issues for our business”.
Visual amenity was raised as a concern, as the duo explained that they have “invested tens of thousands of pounds in improving the approach and entrance to our main station at Lakeside since taking over the business in 2014.” The pair have erected completely new frontage, signage, and planted borders, which they worry will be overshadowed by the motorhome parking.
They argue that the proposal would be a “visual eyesore” and would “obscure our entrance from potential visitors”.
With all concerns in consideration, the planning committee has recommended that the application should be approved with conditions at next months planning meeting.
One condition is that “the site shall only be used for motorhomes/campervans”. Additionally, no camper vans or motorhomes are permitted between the dates of November 1st and March 14th each year to “ensure that the site is not occupied during the winter months when the risk of tidal flooding is at its highest.”
More to follow.
(Image: Google Maps, 2024)
