A Cumbrian landscape charity has welcomed the withdrawal of a planning application for a massive 450-lodge holiday park between Askam- and Barrow-In-Furness. The proposal threatened a sensitive stretch of coastline on the Furness peninsula, that has long been a much-valued haven for local people. Friends of the Lake District organised a demonstration there earlier this year, and submitted a detailed planning response opposing the development.

Friends of the Lake District shared the concerns of several other environmental charities and many local residents that the impact of such a large-scale resort, and the foot-fall of so many additional people, would harm the landscape, tranquillity, and protected species in an area that is subject to a range of biodiversity designations. The holiday park would have been next to a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area, a ‘Ramsar’ protected wetlands site, a County Wildlife site, ancient woodland, and includes a rare and sensitive dune habitat.

Friends of the Lake District worked closely with other organisations and community group, Save Roanhead, to challenge the proposal. 

Lorayne Wall, Friends of the Lake District Planning Officer, said: “We are pleased and relieved that this application has been withdrawn; it is testament to the strength of concern expressed about the proposals. A holiday resort is simply inappropriate for an area protected at an international level, and so highly valued by so many for its wildlife, landscape, and the sense of peace and tranquillity it offers to the residents of Furness and beyond.”

It is expected that the applicants may submit a revised application in due course. Any revised application will be subject to a new consultation. 

Read more on the charity’s website: www.friendsofthelakedistrict.org.uk/roanhead