CONTROVERSIAL plans to expand a Ribble Valley glamping site were approved despite concerns from residents and community leaders.

Ribble Valley Council planning committee discussed the proposal to build an extra six glamping pods at Moorgate Farm in Langho.

The proposals also include the installation of a zipwire and football goals.

There are already eight pods on the site and parish councillors had objected to the scheme, raising a number of concerns.

They said the existing design, noise and light pollution is having a detrimental effect on residents’ wellbeing and on wildlife and the surrounding landscape.

It was also claimed the pods were rarely at full capacity, especially during the week, and therefore there was no need for an extra six pods.

Fears were raised the development would worsen the state of Kenyon Lane, which councillors said is already in a state of disrepair.

They also claimed access was unsuitable and there had been a decrease in the deer population since the original pods were installed.

And it was said that littering had increased.

A further 14 representations against the development were receiveds.

But a report before the committee by principal planning officer Adam Birkett recommended approval.

Mr Birkett said: “The camping pods proposed would be of a similar size, scale and design to the existing pods. Two would be for use by disabled people.

"In terms of its economic benefits to the rural area, the proposals would generate some additional revenue for local businesses and in justifying the proposals the applicant has stated that the existing facility has been popular with holidaymakers as recognised by the receipt of the Ribble Valley Tourism Association Award for New Business 2019.

“The proposals would expand the range of visitor accommodation in the borough. It is considered that the proposed development would not result in an unacceptable level of harm to the appearance and character of the surrounding landscape and that the economic and social benefits of the proposal would outweigh any minor harm to the surrounding landscape.”

Members voted to approve the application despite the objections.