Bimbury Lodge Bimbury Lane, Detling, MAIDSTONE, ME14 3HY

the change of use of land to bijou glamping retreat. Pitching of 4 canvas bell tents. Addition of one shepherd hut and use of existing stable block as dining area/tea room and sleeping pods

Authority: Maidstone Borough Council
Appeal type: minor · Planning Appeal
Procedure: Written Representations
Development: leisure-sport · Change of use
Inspector: Wilkinson H

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

whether the proposal would provide sufficient on-site parking
the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area, including whether the proposal would conserve and enhance the natural beauty, distinctive character and biodiversity of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
the effect of the proposal on the living conditions of the occupiers of neighbouring properties, including Nimbus, Chestnut Cottage and Windy Croft, with particular regard to noise

What decided it

The proposal fails to provide adequate on-site parking provision, which would be prejudicial to highway safety given the narrow access lane and inability to accommodate vehicles leaving in a forward gear.

Plan policies cited: Policy DM1, Policy SP17, Policy DM3, Policy DM30, Policy DM38, Policy SS1

Read the decision letter on the Inspectorate’s site

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What an account adds

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Heritage. Listed buildings by grade and distance, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, registered parks and gardens, heritage at risk.
Landscape and environment. Green belt, national parks and national landscapes, SSSIs, ancient woodland, SPA, SAC and Ramsar sites, nutrient catchments.
Flooding. Flood zones 2 and 3, surface water, and both again with climate change.
Transport. The 800 metre station catchment and service frequency, bus stops with their weekday frequency, the cycle network, and the Framework’s transport tests measured for the site.

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