COMPLAINTS about ‘drink-fuelled parties’ at a holiday business on the outskirts of Ulverston have drawn fire from neighbours.

A couple complained of ‘loud music, foul language, littering, screaming and unacceptable behaviour’ from Eden Lodge and House, which can accommodate up to 40 people near Ulverston Golf Club.

The issues came to light after the operators applied for backdated planning permission from South Lakeland District Council to keep four wooden chalets erected without certain permissions.

Resident Craig Cowen, of Red Lane, Bardsea, told the meeting in Kendal on Thursday that at times, the noise from ‘drink-fuelled parties’ had been ‘unbearable’ and had caused ‘stress and anxiety’ for his family.

Mr Cowen said: “We appeal to the committee to help us as local residents. We simply ask that considerations are made to the close proximity of these lodges and the two congregating areas of the patio and barbecue to my property.”

Wife Victoria criticised the business which offers a hot tub and sauna on land at the junction of the Coast Road and Main Street, Bardsea.

She said: “We do accept people are on holiday and enjoying themselves, however, it’s same-sex parties and groups of young adults which cause the problems. Loud music, foul language, littering, screaming and generally unacceptable behaviour.”

Mrs Cowen said: “Most of the noise comes from the barbecue area which borders our garden. In the summer months I can’t even sit out in my own garden to enjoy my garden and relax. I feel intimidated by the noise and language.”

Mrs Kate Bellwood, an agent for the applicant, reminded councillors that the use of the site as a holiday let was entirely ‘lawful’.

She suggested the lodges would help improve matters by providing additional guests who would complain to those occupying Eden House about any issues.

Another lodge would offer on-site accommodation for a manager, she added.

Mrs Bellwood claimed: “Prior to Mr and Mrs Cowen moving in, we never had any complaints from any of the neighbours over any disturbance from Eden House which had been functioning as a lawful holiday let for four years.”

She said a ‘large and dense’ hedge on the boundary of Eden House was ‘removed’ by Mrs and Mrs Cowen.

“The hedge also served as a barrier to any disturbance coming from the barbecue area.” A fence had been installed at ‘great expense’ she said to help with privacy.

Planning officer's recommended the lodges be allowed but the committee turned them down.