PLANS have been lodged to build two shepherd's huts in the Furness peninsula that will be available as holiday lets and will have ‘spectacular views’ over the Duddon Estuary.

Emma Knight has submitted plans for two huts on Guards Farm in Kirkby-in-Furness to Westmorland and Furness Council in a farm diversification project.

According to planning documents it is hoped revenue from the huts will replace the income currently being received in Rural Payment Agency payments and Environmental Stewardship grants which are due to come to an end in 2024 and 2028 respectively.

The proposed huts will consist of an open-plan handcrafted kitchen, a three-piece bathroom at one end of the hut, with a sleeping area with double bed at the other end.

The design and access statement says: “The proposal is for use as a small holiday let. The site has spectacular views over the Duddon Estuary and provides an excellent location for tourists wanting to explore the South Lakes area. There are several public footpaths within the vicinity for tourists to explore on foot or by bike.

“The proposal will satisfy demand for holiday accommodation in the area and will benefit the local economy."

A previous planning application for the same site was refused as the council stated the proposed building falls within flood zone 3 and the proposed use is ‘highly vulnerable’ and the submitted flood risk assessment failed to meet the requirements of national guidance.

The applicant states in planning documents the area has a ‘high probability’ of tidal and fluvial flooding but the finished floor level of the huts is proposed to be raised to tackle the issue.