‘Floating lodges’ planned at Chichester holiday park

Lakeside, which is based south east of the city, is home to a number of static and touring caravans and is run by Park Holidays UK.

Plans have been submitted for eight floating holiday lodges, essentially floating caravans linked to the shoreline of Copse Lake, to the south of the existing holiday park, in the manner of a marina using jetties for pedestrian access.

According to the application: “This is a long established and sizeable holiday park providing a range of holiday accommodation to suit a diverse tourism market. The proposal seeks to add a new dimension to accommodation facilities, thereby continuing to deliver to the latest market requirements and supporting the parks holiday accommodation contribution to the Chichester area.

“This small development is situated close to the existing holiday park within a well landscaped location that is not open to wider views from its surroundings.”

North Mundham Parish Council has also opposed the floating lodges due to the location site falling almost entirely within an area of common land, concerns about the impact on wildlife and potential for pollution.

The objection concludes: “In summary, the proposal would form an unacceptable disturbance to a designated wildlife site, and deprive the public of their right to roam and enjoy an area of common land. We urge that this application is refused.”

A number of objections from Lakeside owners, nearby residents and visitors have been registered on Chichester District Council’s public planning portal.

Several mention the premium they paid for plots overlooking the lake and how their views and privacy would be affected.

Others highlight the impact on the tranquillity of the area as well as on birds.

One wildlife enthusiast who visits the site regularly said they were ‘horrified’ that some of the area would be ‘blighted’ by the new lodges, which they felt would ‘spoil the beauty and tranquillity of this natural environment’.

Another nearby resident said: “In my opinion this will be catastrophic for the wildlife and will make the lakes far too busy for what is currently a nice, tranquil place to walk and ride.”

Several objectors were also critical of the application being submitted during lockdown and claimed no consultation had taken place with Lakeside lodge owners.

One wrote: “This is a beautiful peaceful area for wildlife which would be ruined. If this proposal goes ahead how long before every lake will be spoilt by floating holiday homes?”

To view the application visit www.chichester.gov.uk/planning using code 20/01098/FUL.

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