CAMPING pods will be built in the heart of Hamsterley Forest after plans were approved, despite objections from neighbours who fear they will shatter the area’s peace and tranquillity.

The four wooden huts will be located in the garden of the 19th century former hunting lodge Grove House, on Redford Lane.

Durham County Council’s area planning committee (south and west) okayed an application to change the garden’s use to accommodate the pods, when it met on Thursday.

But residents of both the adjoining houses, South Bedburn Parish Council and Durham County Councillor Heather Smith argued the development could be harmful to the beauty spot.

Three pods will be in a disused paddock and the fourth will be west of the stables and a small parking area will be created alongside the existing driveway at the property.

Russell Close, of Grove Cottage, said: “In this quiet setting noise is exaggerated, music and people’s voices will disruptive.”

He raised concerns about the impact on the historic building and surrounding rare exotic trees and the impact on neighbours in such a small residential area within the forest.

“It doesn’t seem right for such a unique location. It is a bit like someone in Durham applying for a change of use for a commercial campsite in their garden,” he added.

Parish Council chairman Councillor Stephen Lee said: “The Forestry Commission has greatly increased leisure facilities within Hamsterley Forest and it was estimated that visitor numbers may increase by 50 per cent in the next few years which boosts the local economy, as a parish council we encourage any such income.

“Visitors derive their pleasure from different aspects of leisure on offer, many paying visitors wish to enjoy this peaceful environment for a day out.”

He said to introduce camping in the heart of the forest could harm that peace and drive away more visitors that it attracts.

Cllr Lee said the parish council also believes all camping facilities in the forest should be part of an overall development plan for the forest so they can be sited away from environmentally and historically sensitive areas and where they would not conflict with residents.

All four of the pods, two double and two twin, will be serviced by water and electricity and its own toilet facilities connected to a new biodigester.

Objectors questioned whether the spring fed water supply could cope and said installation of the sewerage system and electric able could damage trees and roots.

Applicant Graham Turner assured the committee the site would be ran responsibly from the house, with rules to prevent late night noise and traffic and banning dogs and group bookings and said the house and gardens are well screened.

Members also heard that the pods, like a caravan site, would require a licence to operate which would cover issues such as the water and electricity supply and site management.

Councillor George Richardson, who represents Barnard Castle but has lived in Hamsterley all his life, said: “Everything the objectors said it true without doubt.”

Cllr John Clare, of Aycliffe North and Middridge, agreed that the area is a place of solace but felt the pods should be approved. He suggested the parish council consider creating a neighbourhood plan to help influence future development.

Cllr Clare added: “We seek to enhance visitor income and one problem is that people don’t stay more than one night, we need to encourage people to stay longer I think they will come here for the character of the area.”

Members approved the application.