As an eager Ambleside howler and screamer, by Peter Gaukroger's definition, (Letters, August 20, ‘Accept boost to economy’) no, I don’t want Premier Inn’s ‘international standard of accommodation’ here in its latest bizarre incarnation.
I don’t want it if it means putting Ambleside bed and breakfasts out of business. Nor it if it means building on a flood plain with unfeasible water catchment plans that will put the flood in other homes and properties.
Nor if it means trashing Roman heritage. Nor if it means erecting an eyesore that will bring city architecture to a Lakeland mountain village.
Nor if it means creating even more more traffic snarl-ups.
There isn’t a simplistic choice, despite what Mr Gaukroger states, between; ‘increased tourism and (its) financial benefits’, and some petty whinging.
There is, however, a choice between what is right for the Lake District according to the principles of National Park status incorporating environmental and cultural conservation; and what isn’t.
Some of us know what is right according to those principles. This Premier Inn is simply not right for the Lake District.
Steve Dickinson
Ambleside
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel