HOLIDAY pods will be built at an Elizabethan wedding venue after a soar in the number of people wanting to stay.

Newfoundland Lodges Ltd, based in Cumbria, submitted a planning application to Ribble Valley Council to erect 10 holiday pods at the historic Browsholme Hall, in Clitheroe Road, Clitheroe.

Browsholme Hall, which lies in the Forest of Bowland, is a Grade I listed historic house and has, since 1507, been the home of the Parker family.

Robert Parker and Amanda Parker, who co-own Browsholme Hall, said they feel there is a shortage of 'quality' accommodation in the Ribble Valley and believe the new camping pods will help to 'boost' tourism in the area.

The couple, who picked up three awards at the Lancashire Tourism Awards last year, also hope there will be a surge in the number of people who book accommodation at the wedding venue, which attracts over 10,000 visitors and more than 60 weddings a year.

Each micro lodge, which is constructed from timber, will cater to up to four adults and include changing facilities, a shower room, a toilet and kitchenette.

At least four additional full time staff will also be required to service the holiday pods in the form of cooking, cleaning, setting up events and ground staff, the applicants said.

The pods will be situated in the woodland at the edge of the estate.