Wildlife lake and holiday lodges set for approval

Plans for a new wildlife lake, nature reserve and eight holiday lodges look set for approval despite objections from neighbours.

The owners of Oakland Garden Supplies in Pentney, Norfolk want to expand the site, which also includes building extra warehouse space and flood protection measures with a new sluice gate.

They said the project, supported by the parish council, would create 20 additional jobs at the location close to the A47.

Surrounding landowners - who have their own conservation projects - argued it would lead to light pollution, noise and disturbance, but officers at West Norfolk Council recommended the plans be approved.

Developers had been given a year to provide more detail about the environmental impact the site could have.

The area around Pentney Lakes and woods has seen a growing number of visitors in recent years, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Visitors to the existing lakes can stay in holiday lodges and take part in waterskiing, while the village's two spa resorts attract people looking to unwind in rural Norfolk.

However, there has been a growing backlash at the rate of the development, which some people fear is harming wildlife.

In November, a similar proposal to create 36 holiday lodges and a wild swimming centre was blocked by councillors due to the potential harm it could cause to the environment.

Councillors were due to meet on Monday morning to vote on the application.

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