Motorhomes pitch plan “needed” in seaside town

Motorhome drivers could get more space to pitch in Ilfracombe if a restaurant is allowed to covert some redundant tennis courts.

Larkstone Cafe Bar says only one other location in the area accommodates motorhomes, and that is on the edge of town.

The family business also wants to create a 20-space car park for customers to alleviate on-street parking.

The site is close to the harbour and within the Ilfracombe Tourism Area, but just outside the development boundary.

The proposal is for eight motorhome pitches which would be available all year round except January.

In a planning statement to North Devon Council, agent for the applicant Victoria Needham architects said the development would benefit local shops, cafes and restaurants.

It is anticipated that a new watersports centre, located a few minutes’ walk away, would draw visitors, and in turn the motorhome owners would use the watersports centre.

Changes to the site will be “minimal”, and new trees would screen the vehicles from nearby dwellings.

The existing entrance and track would be upgraded and the current parking and hardstanding area would be used for staff and deliveries.

Most visitors currently use a public car park next to the swimming pool to go to the bar at Larkstone but some park on surrounding roads at Larkstone Gardens and Hillsborough Road to avoid charges, the agent said.

“The provision of 20 spaces on site will alleviate the on-street parking and free up space in the public car parks which can get busy in the summer months,” they said.