Plans to create a campsite for wellness retreats on land north of Water Lane, Little Whelnetham, near Bury St Edmunds, refused by West Suffolk Council

Plans to create a campsite for wellness retreats in a village have been refused.

The change of use application, lodged by Karl Shelley in September 2022, concerned agricultural land to the north of Water Lane, in Little Whelnetham, near Bury St Edmunds.

The proposals sought permission to house six holiday units, a 25 metre access track, improved access from Lower Green, a communal parking area and a container for tools and vehicles on the land.

West Suffolk Council (WSC) refused the application yesterday.

Planners raised concerns about the potential noise and odour impacts on neighbouring properties as well as the effects construction would have on the area’s vegetation.

A delegated report detailing the refusal said the applicant had already removed a number of trees towards the entrance and ‘along the frontage of the site’ during the course of the application.

The report said this was ‘highly undesirable’ as, while the trees were not protected, they made up the ‘rural character’ of the existing street scene.

Great and Little Whelnetham Parish Council objected to the plans.

In its objection Elaine Gorman, parish clerk, said the council was ‘increasingly concerned’ about the application.

They raised concerns over how activity on the site would be monitored to avoid public nuisance and potential damage to trees.

The proposals received seven letters of objection from the public, while another two supported the plans.

The public objections included highways safety, biodiversity, noise from the campsite and the urbanisation of the countryside.