Services such as health care and transport in the Bridgnorth district could be stretched if some holiday chalets and caravans are lived in full-time, it is claimed.

Concerns have been raised about the number of people buying the homes, believing they can live in them permanently.

This has led to calls for greater clarification during the planning process.

Councillors have asked for changes in the wording when planning conditions are put in place.

At present Government guidelines state that holiday homes should not be occupied for more than 28 days in a year and for no more than three times a year with a break of at least four weeks between occupation.

The issue was highlighted at a meeting of Bridgnorth District Council’s planning committee.

Madge Shineton, councillor for Stottesdon ward, said: “Nobody is against the holiday chalets per se.

“Our problem is they are not often being used for holiday lets, they are being used for permanent dwellings which is against planning conditions.

“Sometimes I feel people have bought the chalets under false pretences in the belief they can live there full-time.

“It’s all very well having these chalets, but if they are going to come and live here there is a ripple effect.

“Health care and transport needs would need to be taken into account,” she added.

Councillor Norman Cottrell said the wording needed to be tightened up and suggested site owners should keep a register to check people have another permanent residential address.