Controversial village petrol station plan approved
James Hall & CoControversial plans for a petrol station and shop to open in a rural village have been given the go-ahead, despite objections.
The Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has given permission to James Hall & Co to build on land at Bragg Field in Hawkshead, near Ambleside.
Objections included concerns that the development would be too close to nearby homes about 65ft (20m) away, economic impact on the village and pollution.
A LDNPA report said the issues were "finely balanced", but planners were "not convinced" the Spar shop and petrol station would cause more disturbance than the current car park on site.
Initial plans by Hall & Co had attracted more than 40 objections and after they were amended to take into consideration some of the concerns, a further 30 were received by the council.
Resident Christopher Stewardson said he believed there were enough petrol stations in the surrounding area.
"This is just promoting a modern gluttonous need for amenities," he said.
He added the plans showed a "total disregard" for the residents of the nearby Bragg Field Cottages, who would have petrol pumps "less than 50m from their kitchen window".
James Hall & CoHanne Crank, another objector, said she feared people would just "fill up and go", instead of visiting Hawkshead and its businesses.
"It is highly likely that the effect will be an economic disaster for the village as the current shops will be adversely affected," she said.
The amended plans, however, also received 11 letters of support, with people highlighting the benefits of more amenities and the potential positive impact on the village's economy.
Jim Whitworth said the development would be an "asset", serving locals and visitors alike.
"It would save a 12-mile round trip on many occasions," he said.
The LDNPA's report said the site's current use as a car park meant residents of Bragg Field Cottages "already experience vehicle movements throughout the day".
"I recognise that vehicles using the car park are typically likely to remain for relatively long periods of time compared to those visiting the shop or petrol station, and therefore vehicle movements are likely to be greater as a result of the development," the report said.
It added: "Moreover, there is likely to be more activity in the evening than is currently the case."
The plans were approved with a condition that the shop would only operate between 07:00 and 22:00.