Objections flood in over plans for caravan site in residential area

Robert Dawson is proposing a change of use of land in Regina Walk to site 24 caravans, stating that the site, which is an open field or paddock, has mature landscaping and is fenced on all sides.

However, residents living nearby have told the Standard that as well as "loss of privacy" they are are concerned that the development would impact wildlife, including badgers, deer and birds.

Alex Lightfoot told us: "The field also floods on a regular basis and is also surrounded by residents on three sides.

"We have enough caravans in this area."

The planning statement says the site is located 'in the heart of Chapel St Leonards', 300mtrs from the sea and in a flood zone.

The field lies behind "a row of frontage houses on the western side of Buckingham Drive, with houses on Regina Walk to the north and Beach Avenue to the south".

"The site is surrounded by dwellings and their gardens to the north, east and south , with the village hall and associated land to the east," the statement reads.

"Mature landscaping and fencing borders the field at all sides."

However, more than 40 residents living nearby have written letters of objection to East Lindsey District Council planners, who will make the final decision.

Dee Lightfoot of Buckingham Drive, feared there would be a loss if habitat for wildlife if the plan was approved.

"Field is really boggy and our gardens flood when it rains," she said.

She was also concerned about the Impact of extra traffic and pollution and said there would be 'loss of privacy In the middle of the village' which is a 'residential area and totally out of character for the area'.

Deborah Hill, of Beatrice Way, said the village 'did not need a caravan park in the middle of residential property'.

"I lived on Beach Avenue until last year and we have enough issues with cars parking in our driveways for the Spa," she said. "In the summer they park there to spend the day at the beach. Please rethink

And Howard Copse, of Connaught Drive, said the village already has an area dedicated to the tourist industry around Trunch Lane and allowing another caravan park could force some residents to "sell and move".

"The increase in traffic alone using Regina Walk to access the proposed new site would cause major problems for the residents who live there, which would in turn spill out onto Wilton Avenue and Buckingham Drive," he said.

"Bank Holidays sees the road network between Chapel and Ingoldmells at a standstill, so it might be an idea if the Council spent money on improving the road structure in the area before it agrees to more holiday parks.

The area around the proposed site is a recognised residential area, which in the main is home to retired people who have made a home in Chapel because of it's quiet nature. The building of this park would for the local residents bring this to an end.

"The noise of people returning at night to their vans would cause a disruption to their lives, which some would be unable to put up with and would be forced to sell and move incurring a financial loss has their properties it depreciate in value once this park is open."

Supporting the residents is parish councillor Steve Wharmsley, who told the Standard that in spite of the application not being on the agenda he hoped to bring the conserns of residents up 'as a resident' at East Lindsey's planning meeting last night (Tuesday).

"Another caravan site should not be allowed in the middle of a residential area," he said.

Meanwhile, 'Stay at Home' remains the plea to caravanners who would have been moving back to parks along the coast this week.

They now have to wait until April 12 as part of the Government's roadmap to coming out of lockdown.

ELDC: Portfolio Holder for the Coastal Economy for East Lindsey District Council, Coun Steve Kirk, said: “Lock down has been a tough challenge for a lot of businesses and residents alike and since the announcement of easing there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

"There is nothing I would like nothing more than to see our wonderful towns bustling and the economy getting the boost it desperately needs.

"But sadly, until the 12th of April, at the earliest, very little will be allowed to open on the coast for people to enjoy.

"The Stay at Home order will still be in place, so we are urging everyone to stay at home and stay safe.

"It may be tempting to travel over for Easter, especially if the weather is good, but realistically, the coast won’t be fully open.

"Let’s make sure the hard work we have all done until now isn’t undone unnecessarily.”