Green light for expansion at local tourism site

By Elgan Hearn, Local Democracy Reporter 

An extension to an award-winning holiday park near Guilsfield has been approved by Powys planners.

The Jones family, who own the Hidden Valley Caravan and Chalet Park, will now be allowed to have another seven holiday lodges on the site.

Set in a peaceful wooded valley that overlooks its own lake and wildlife sanctuary, the five-star holiday park, which is on the B4392, already has 185 lodges and holiday homes on its 30-acre site.

Powys County Council (PCC) planning officer, Luke Evans, explained in his report that he would give the plans “conditional approval”, as concerns had been raised about a public right of way that could be obstructed by the development.

Mr Evans said: “The public right of way referred to shall not be impacted by the development, however, does have the potential to be impacted during the construction therefore, an informative note will be attached reminding the applicant of their responsibilities regarding the public right of way.”

One of the 10 conditions imposed on the planning approval is that lodges can only be used as holiday accommodation and not as a permanent home.

Due to this, Hidden Valley will need to keep an up-to-date register that can be made available for inspection by PCC.

Guilsfield Community Council has also backed the application.

Agent, Richard Corbett of Roger Parry and Partners, explained the proposal in a Design and Access statement.

Mr Corbett said: “The site is within the ownership of the Jones family and can provide an opportunity for the family to extend their existing caravan park while gaining additional income and future-proofing their children’s future in the local area.”

Mr Corbett added that he also believed that the plans “meet the need” for holiday accommodation in Powys and would help support the economy.

On this point, Mr Corbett stressed how important the tourism sector will be to rebuilding the economy because of the damage the Covid-19 pandemic has caused it.

Mr Corbett said: “Tourism makes a substantial contribution to the Powys economy, supporting over 12,327 jobs.

“There are 1,549 tourism accommodation establishments in Powys, with a recent bed-stock survey confirming a total of 49,697 sleeping/bed spaces.

“The average length of stay is 3.71 nights with an average spend of £41.61 per night.”