J&T Gizzi has submitted lodge designs for a new holiday complex at Northop Country Park to Flintshire County Council, marking the next step in the project’s development. 

The construction firm secured approval for the site in 2023 after an appeal process, following the local authority’s failure to issue a decision within the required timeframe.

The proposed complex will include 11 two-story lodges designed to accommodate up to eight guests, featuring three double rooms—two with en-suite bathrooms—a twin room, a full-height living space with a skylight, and a large dining area. 

According to a report by The Leader, 13 single-story lodges will offer a double room with an en-suite, a twin room, and more compact living and dining areas. 

Each lodge will have a designated parking space, with additional parking near the site office, as well as private decking areas with outdoor seating and hot tubs.

According to the design statement, the lodges will “be designed in a low-impact manner through energy-efficient designs, promoting the use of natural materials and providing sustainable drainage solutions.”

The project’s initial application, submitted in 2020, faced multiple objections, including concerns from Northop Community Council about potential traffic increases and the development’s compatibility with the existing landscape. 

Local residents also voiced opposition, with 27 letters of objection submitted. Despite these concerns, planning inspector Iwan Lloyd ultimately ruled in favor of the development, stating, 

“In final balance, I conclude that the conflict with the development plan and the identified harm is outweighed by other considerations which would justify granting planning permission.”

For outdoor hospitality operators, the project underscores the growing demand for high-quality lodge accommodations and the potential challenges of navigating local planning processes. 

With sustainability as a key design feature, the development aligns with the industry’s broader movement toward eco-conscious construction and guest experiences. 

Businesses considering similar projects may find value in understanding the regulatory hurdles and the importance of detailed, well-supported applications to address potential objections effectively.