Caravan park near Bridgnorth would 'protect' historic pub
A tourism venture will help protect the future of a village pub, according to those behind the plans.
Kevin Ahern hopes to convert eight static caravans at Woodhill Farm in Highley, Bridgnorth, into holiday lets, along with the conversion of a garage and stable buildings to provide two additional lets.
He is also the owner of the adjacent Malt Shovel public house, although it is run as a separate business.
Neill Hollingworth, of agents Hollingworth Dean-Walker Associates Ltd, said: “Adjacent to the public house, the provision of self-catering accommodation would complement the existing facilities in the village.
“Rural public houses are in steady decline and the provision of self-catering accommodation on this site provides an opportunity for additional revenue and a complementary facility to be run in parallel with the business at the existing public house.”
The site had previously received permission for four similar lets, but the applicant felt they would be too small.
Mr Hollingworth said increasing the number to 10 lets would be more viable.
He added: ”The proximity of the Malt Shovel public house is seen as an important factor, giving substance to the proposal.
“Rural public houses are struggling and in steady decline, and the provision of a reasonable number of self-catering accommodation units on this site provides an opportunity for additional revenue for the Malt Shovel, which although run as a separate business, offers a complementary and symbiotic facility, and gives a focus to the amenities on offer in the wider Highley area for residents of the lodges.”
The proposal includes parking for 10 vehicles – eight more than is currently on the site.
A decision is expected from Shropshire Council planning officers by July 30.
