Plans for a new touring caravan site at Brookfields Farm in Harmby, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, have been approved by North Yorkshire Council. 

The site, which is set to replace its operation under the Caravan and Motor Home Club exemption, already accommodates seven caravans. The development is being led by Mr. and Mrs. R and J Stirk, with Maria Ferguson acting as the agent.

According to a report by the Northern Echo, the proposal received full planning permission, marking a change of land use for the site. 

North Yorkshire Council’s approval was granted based on the application’s compliance with the National Planning Policy Framework, which supports sustainable economic development.

The site is not located in an area prone to flooding, and a soakaway system will be used for surface water management. The application also outlines provisions for waste management, including dedicated areas for the storage and separation of recyclables. 

Additionally, it specifies that there will be no impact on pedestrian or vehicular access, and no new public rights of way are planned for the development.

However, the council has placed several conditions on the development to ensure it aligns with the rural character of the area, maintains public access, and minimizes impact on nearby residences. 

These conditions include approval for external lighting to limit light pollution, a restriction to seven caravans to reduce the visual or environmental impact, and a holiday accommodation-only requirement to prevent permanent residency. 

The development will be monitored for compliance, and guest logs will be required to ensure adherence to these conditions.

Public feedback on the project has been mixed. Stuart Crawford, a local resident, expressed cautious support, emphasizing the importance of enforcing strict conditions.

He also raised concerns about potential issues with traffic, safety, and noise, should the conditions not be adequately enforced. Crawford suggested the addition of hedges or trees around the gateway to preserve the area’s aesthetic and rural charm.

The Local Highway Authority has indicated that any disruption to public rights of way during construction will require a Temporary Closure Order, and if future works necessitate changes to the public path, a Public Path Order application will be needed.