CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 12 holiday cabins next to a military and police training area have been rejected - much to the delight of local residents shocked at the proposals.

The plans to build the log cabins at Bushby Gill, Scotton, near Catterick Garrison, had been deferred by Richmondshire District Council’s planning committee in January because members wanted to visit the site, and the plan was resubmitted last week.

Applicant Barry Raw said the woodland where his proposed cabins would be situated has been historically unmanaged and is in a poor state because of this, and has often been used as a dumping ground with a fly-tipping problem.

He said the scheme would safeguard and enhance the value of the wood.

But residents of Scotton came out in force to oppose the plans and more than 50 attended the planning meeting on Tuesday to support those speaking in favour of rejection.

Resident Christine Summers said: “The site is adjacent to a heavily used and ever-expanding military training base.

“The noise, danger, sensitive nature of the activities and potential negative impact on them cannot be understated.

“The training involves open-air broadcasting of load, threatening recordings. The bombardment is intrusive and frightening – how do you explain a full scale early dawn battle with mortar fire? “This is not a suitable environment for a relaxing holiday.”

Another resident Julie Greensmith said as part of the Scotton flood defence scheme excess water is pumped towards Bushby Gill, which would impact on the development.

Ward member Mark Bradbury said: “Local residents put up with the noise on a regular basis. I don’t think it’s appropriate to holiday in such close proximity to an MoD training area – if common sense prevails we should be thinking about refusal.”

Members voted unanimously in favour of rejecting the application.