Glamping pods proposed at historic Wellesbourne Hall
PLANS to turn part of Wellesbourne Hall into a temporary glamping site have been submitted to Stratford District Council.
The change of use application would see the large walled garden inside the Grade II*-listed building homing eight prefabricated Glampods – six for two people and two for three people – and a communal barbecue area.
Under the proposals submitted by Wellesbourne Hall Developments Ltd, the existing swimming pool would be refurbished and a plant and changing facility, the same in appearance as the Glampods, will be built. New parking and refuse collections areas, as well as hard and soft landscaping are also included in the plans.
Applicant Harminda Dhinsay said: “Our dream is to bring the main hall and all of the heritage properties back to their former glory and respectfully restored, the entire site to be landscaped in line with the heritage, and to plant heritage trees to convert the paddock back into a woodland as it once was all those centuries ago.
“To enable this, however, we have been through four pre-planning applications where we have consulted with Historic England, Stratford District Council’s conservation officer and planning officers to come up with a scheme that respects the setting of the house and other heritage buildings, while maximising potential to financially support the long-term existence of the estate. We initially planned for a four contemporary property scheme in the north walled garden but then switched to the glamping scheme in order to minimise the additional traffic down Church Walk.”
He added: “We feel that the walled garden would provide a perfect retreat and an opportunity to enjoy the quiet charms of Wellesbourne with its river and its pubs. The glamping is aimed at those looking for a quiet and restful stay: the family are very sensitive to their neighbours and want to share the grounds with visitors who value the same peace and quiet.”
Several letters of objection have been submitted with the main concern being the sole access to the glamping site via Church Walk, which they say would be unsafe. One said Church Walk, which is popular with dog walkers, is tight due to residents having to park outside homes because there are no garages. Another added the increase in traffic for the glamping site would make “difficult access even worse”.
Ward member Cllr Anne Parry said that while she normally supports activities that promote tourism, she claimed this was “the wrong type of development” within Wellesbourne’s conservation area. She also said in her consultation letter that the glamping site with access to the swimming pool would cause “significant harm” to the setting and character of Wellesbourne Hall.
The district council has until 13th January 2023 to make a decision on the plans and the listed building consent.