Woolacombe holiday complex asks for 'unrestricted period of occupation' for its caravans

A holiday complex at Woolacombe is looking to update planning permission granted in 1969 which prevents people staying in its 80 static caravans in the winter.

Golden Coast Sporting Villas Ltd has consent for its caravans at Cleavewood Leisure Park to be used from March 15 to October 31 each year but now wants to boost out-of-season occupation.

The seasonal use condition was put in place to ensure the caravans were not used as permanent accommodation. The applicants are asking for a variation to allow 'an unrestricted period of occupation' while still retaining holiday use at the park which is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Heritage Coast.

The applicant’ agent, Laiser Planning, said the current planning condition is very dated and goes well beyond what is necessary to prevent permanent residential occupation of the caravans.

“It undermines the operator’s business objective for a more secure and consistent year-round holiday operation, and hampers the long-term viability and sustainability of Cleavewood Leisure Park,” the agent said.

The owners also have 256 holiday apartments, villas and lodges, 83 touring pitches and other facilities such as swimming pools and tennis courts which are available to customers of both Cleavewood Leisure Park and Golden Coast Holiday Village.

An increase in demand for short breaks in the autumn and winter has prompted the request to vary the 1969 planning permission. The company says the change will help the local economy.

The planning application will be considered by North Devon Council at a later date.