Residents of Cornish Hamlet Face Privacy and Aesthetic Challenges
Residents in a small rural hamlet in Cornwall are experiencing significant challenges due to the expansion of a nearby holiday park. The issue has led to a growing concern among locals, who claim that their homes have been negatively impacted by the placement of static caravans.
The problem began when 60 static caravans were installed at Meadow Lakes Holiday Park, reportedly in an incorrect location. This development has resulted in residents losing their privacy, as well as being unable to enjoy their gardens and hot tubs. The situation has sparked a long-standing dispute that has affected the quality of life for many in the area.
Impact on Local Residents
Lorraine Harvey, a resident of the hamlet, shared her concerns about the changes that have occurred since 2021. She mentioned that the caravans appeared suddenly and significantly altered the landscape. According to her, the installation of these caravans led to the removal of two-thirds of a field that had been used for towing caravans and tents since 1979. In January 2023, additional work was carried out, which included the removal of ancient hedgerows.
Her husband, Jeff Harvey, expressed his frustration with the lack of privacy now that the trees and hedgerows have been removed. He emphasized that while he supports tourism in Cornwall, he believes that proper planning consent must be followed. He also pointed out that the council has not taken any action to address the issue.
Concerns Over Planning Permissions
Bruce Bryan, another long-time resident of the hamlet, described the situation as farcical. He noted that he rarely uses his garden anymore and avoids using his hot tub because of the intrusive nature of the caravans. He mentioned that the caravans have lighting that resembles the Blackpool illuminations, making it difficult to enjoy the outdoors.
Bryan also highlighted that the caravans appear to have been placed without full planning permission. He pointed out that the installation of roads, street lights, and sewage systems typically requires planning permission, which he believes is missing in this case.
Calls for Reinstatement of Original Plans
Jayne Collins, a resident who has lived in the area for eight years, expressed her disappointment with the changes. She mentioned that the area used to be quiet and beautiful, but now there are people living there nearly all year round, along with increased traffic. She would like to see the site returned to its original state as a touring caravan and tent field.
Mrs. Harvey explained that Meadow Lakes had a planning application granted in 2007 for 70 timber-faced lodges on the north/northeastern side of the holiday park. However, she believes the caravans were incorrectly placed closer to their homes, based on an earlier plan from 1978.
She mentioned that she attempted to bring this to the attention of enforcement authorities multiple times, but her concerns were repeatedly dismissed. She also emphasized that the caravan act defines a touring caravan, which includes tents, and that the owners cannot simply switch 75 touring/tents for 60 statics.
Council Response
Cornwall Council stated that extensive investigations have been conducted regarding the site. They concluded that the current placement of the caravans does not constitute a breach of planning control. While they acknowledge the concerns raised by residents, they emphasize that these concerns have been carefully considered.
Rachel Nation, managing director of Acorn Parks Ltd, which acquired Meadow Lakes in 2009, mentioned that the company has engaged with Cornwall Council and other local authorities over the past two years. She also held meetings with residents, including Lorraine and Jeff Harvey, to explain the development details.
Nation added that she is not aware of any specific plan shown to Lorraine Harvey by a former staff member three years ago. However, she reiterated that Meadow Lakes has a detailed planning history.
