Concern Holy Island is 'saturated' with holiday lets as application approved
by James Robinson · ChronicleLivePlans for a new holiday let on Lindisfarne have been approved despite concerns over the number that already exist on the island.
The plans will see an outbuilding at a property on Sandham Lane extended and converted into a holiday let. The building was previously used as a bothy and is grade II curtilage listed.
The plans received objections from both the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Holy Island Parish Council. However, the plans were recommended for approval by council officers.
The AONB feared the proposals would have a "a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of Sandham Lane and its listed buildings, the Conservation Area, and the community vitality of Holy Island" , while the parish council raised concerns about noise, parking and an additional holiday let.
Speaking at Thursday's meeting of the North Northumberland Local Area Planning Committee, agent Hannah Wafer spoke in defence of the plans. She said the conversion would enable the building to be maintained in the future.
She added: "We appreciate there is a lot of holiday homes, but the applicant is seeking to make use of a small building. Because of its size, we do believe this is the best use rather than a permanent dwelling."
Coun Colin Hardy, who represents Holy Island as part of the Norham and Islandshires ward, said: "As the local member I'm aware that this has gone on for a period of time. Although the island is saturated with holiday accommodation - 50% of properties on the island are holiday lets - what else would you do with it?
"It used to be a bothy, it was accommodation at one point."
Coun Isabel Hunter added: "It is disappointing to see another holiday let on Holy Island, due to to the amount we have already got there."
The plans were unanimously approved by the council.
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