CONTROVERSIAL plans to build holiday lodges at a unique woodland outside Great Malvern have been recommended for approval.
Planning officers say the scheme to build 50 lodges and a reception office in Langdale Wood, off Blackmore Road, should be given the green light.
However, the Three Counties Agricultural Society’s plans have been contested for several months and campaigners have been left stunned by the decision to recommend approval.
Sharon Taylor, who set up the Save Langdale Wood campaign in October last year, said: “Campaign supporters are really shocked that this recommendation has been made despite the 11-page objection that was submitted with arguments disputing the need for the lodges in the area.
“We obtained 1,600 signatures on our petition and have 250 followers on our Facebook page.”
She added a survey showed the accommodation was not needed as local hotels, bed and breakfasts and campsites in the area were under-used for most of the year.
“As a campaign we can only hope democracy will not be swayed and councillors will overwhelmingly vote to reject the application.”
Clive Hooper, chairman of the town’s civic society, has also urged Malvern Hills District Council to reject the planning officers’ recommendation to approve the project.
“We strongly oppose the proposal to build these lodges,” he added.
“We fully support the Save Langdale Wood campaign and believe the scheme will have serious adverse environmental implications if it goes ahead.”
However, the Three Counties Agricultural Society believes the application is needed to develop tourism in the area.
“To promote a strong rural economy, sustainable rural tourism and leisure developments should be supported that benefit businesses in rural area, communities and visitors and which respect the character of the countryside.
“It is considered the benefits of the proposal are considered to outweigh any losses,” the society’s report said.
A decision on the controversial plans is to be made tonight (Wednesday) at the district council’s southern area planning committee meeting.
Protesters will be holding a candlelit vigil outside the Council Chamber on Avenue Road from 5.30pm and the meeting starts at 6pm.
