A proposal to build a small holiday let development near one of Whitby’s most famous historic landmarks has led to objections from people living nearby.
Developer Knapton & Knapton Ltd has submitted proposals to North Yorkshire Council for four high-end modular holiday units at Riverside Walk, off Larpool Lane, close to the 19th-century Larpool Viaduct.
The plan also features road widening, parking for each unit, and landscaping to help the new buildings fit in with the area.
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Planning documents say the development would offer “market-leading” holiday accommodation that fits in with the local landscape and matches the area’s character.
The units would be set out to use the site’s natural slope and features, while keeping privacy and space between each building.
But several residents have objected, raising concerns about disruption, safety, wildlife, and how the project might affect the viaduct’s setting.
Anne Robinson, who lives at Captain Cook’s Haven, said she and 41 other owners strongly oppose widening the shared road and are worried about disruption from building work and construction traffic. She explained that the area is a family holiday park and believes the work could put visitors and staff at risk.
Other residents have raised environmental concerns, noting that deer and other wildlife use the undeveloped embankment. Stephen Clough, one of the objectors, said the land gives deer a safe place to live and move around, and warned that building on it could harm the local ecosystem.
Some people are also worried that the development could change the character of the area and take away from the setting of Larpool Viaduct, which is known locally for its historic value.
The site is on steep land above the River Esk, about 0.6km northeast of Ruswarp and just south of Whitby town centre. It is currently undeveloped, but there are other holiday accommodations nearby to the north and south.
The proposal includes widening the access road to four metres. The applicant says this would make access easier and benefit current users as well.
North Yorkshire Council has not yet said when it will make a decision. The application is still open for public comments.
What a horrible idea! I don’t live in Whitby, but it’s my favourite holiday destination. The deer are more important than these ugly abominations! They’re not needed, and an eyesore if these pictures are anything to go by. I hope the council has the sense to leave this natural area of importance alone. If they don’t, it’ll be down to money-grabbing morons!