Holiday cabin plan approved

Residents in Liverton Mines were split after proposals were put to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council for a holiday-let log cabin.

Following a planning committee meeting last week, plans were approved for the site at Thornlea, just off Liverton Road.

The majority ruling was that it would help to promote tourism in the former mining community.

However, the panel was divided and officials had recommended refusal.

Chairman Peter Spencer said: "I voted against because it was outside permitted development, with Liverton being such a small village.

"But the majority view was that the type of construction can help the tourism industry."

Loftus Town Council said the proposal could set a precedent for larger holiday lets and the conversion of existing houses to holiday homes.

They said this could lead to a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of the village.

While the borough council received four letters of objection, three from anonymous authors, it was sent 16 letters in support from locals.

Supporters said the village was in a deprived area and that the cabin, which will be away from the main road, would bring tourism and economic benefits to the village.

However, one resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "Liverton is too small for tourism like other towns and cities.

"This is a village mainly comprising of residential homes and I disagree with having a holiday home in the middle of a rural community such as Liverton.

"If this idea grows, then more huts will be built and the whole feel of the village will be ruined."

Ward councillor for tourism, Dave Fitzpatrick, said: "Everywhere is pushing for tourism now and the majority of people thought that this was a positive move.

"Liverton lies on the boundaries to the North York Moors National Park and there is a shortage of quality lodgings for visitors.

"As long as its not detrimental to the image of the village, I think it will be a positive venture."