A LANDOWNER is hoping to cash in on increased enthusiasm for mountain biking at Hamsterley Forest by creating a camping and caravanning facility nearby.
Justin Breward has asked for permission to change the use of a field along Nettlebed Lane, in Morley, from agricultural to camping and caravanning. If approved, he hopes to erect six teepee tents and install ten camping pitches and ten caravan pitches at the site.
He also wants to build toilet and shower facilities, along with a concrete pad for washing bicycles.
Keith McClure, agent for Mr Breward, said the Covid-19 pandemic had led to a surge in interest in cycling in the forest. In a planning statement, he added: “The growth of cycling has exploded during lockdown and it is envisaged that this trend will continue post Covid-19. Research has indicated that while a number of visitors are local to the immediate area, there are also a significant number of visitors come from Scotland and Wales.”
Mr McClure said many cyclists are looking for simple camping-style accommodation which the site could provide. It would also alleviate some of the problems of vehicles parking on verges near the forest as mountain bikers could easily cycle from the camping and caravan park to the forest. He added: “Given the location of the site it is acknowledged that area has limited facilities. However, we have been advised that mountain bikers usually bring most, if not all, of their supplies with them. However, to prevent unnecessary journeys, it is proposed to offer a limited supply station offering the essentials to those if they need them. Also, a proposed new general-purpose building would be used as a lock-up storage for essential and valuable equipment. A new concrete pad will be constructed which will enable the cyclists to pressure wash their bikes if needed.”
