A developer has unveiled plans for a luxury holiday lodge complex in County Durham which could create dozens of jobs.
Proposals have been submitted for 24 two, three and four bedroomed lodges, a reception building and new landscaping on a site north west of Beamish Hall, in a seen by developer Peter Conroy as a boost for the region’s tourism sector.
If the development is approved, more than 25 jobs will be supported during construction, 10 jobs will be created on site once the complex is up and running, and a host of local businesses within the Beamish, Stanley and Durham region would also be supported.
The planned lodges, varying in size from 592sqft to 925sqfy, have been designed as part of a landscape and heritage-led development, with the buildings being constructed using local materials to match the colour and design of existing properties in the area.
A new reception building will have a waiting area, staff bathroom and offices with parking space for visitors.
Access to the site will be improved with a new road, while a route to Beamish Hall, Beamish Park Golf Club and Beamish Outdoor Museum will improve connections to nearby attractions for pedestrians and cyclists.
Plans being considered by Durham County Council planning officers also include a 15m buffer zone to provide added protection for nearby ancient woodland, along with a commitment to deliver biodiversity improvements for the site.
Joe Ridgeon, director at North East-based Hedley Planning Services, who is steering the application through the planning process, said: “As people continue to holiday closer to home in the next 12 months, millions of pounds could be injected back into the regional staycations economy.
“We’re seeing a lot of activity as developers bring forward their plans to tap into the staycation market, including the Beamish Valley Lodges project, which will provide a welcome boost to local holiday facilities.
"They offer guests luxury accommodation and the chance to stay in a beautiful part of the country, enjoying many attractions and world heritage sites in County Durham.”
A planning decision is expected in the autumn and, if approved, the site could open for summer 2022.
