TWO controversial applications to create luxury holiday parks in the Cartmel Peninsula have been withdrawn. 

Hundreds of objections were lodged to the plans, submitted by Holker Estates, which proposed to turn both the outdoor education centre at Humphrey Head and a former sewage treatment plant at Cartmel Racecourse into sites of 18 twin-unit holiday lodges.

Grange District Councillor Fiona Hanlon has been a vocal campaigner against the plans, most notably the proposal to demolish the decades-old centre at Humphrey Head, and has expressed her delight at the withdrawal of the applications.

She has also reiterated a desire to work with Holker Estates, which owns the sites, to secure its future.

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"We are all head over heels that the application to build 18 luxury lodges on Humphrey Head has been withdrawn by Holker Estates," she said.

"Among other issues, Cumbria County Council Highways has expressed significant concerns about the narrow lane access to the site.

"Transporters carrying lodge units would have great difficulty using the mile-long narrow lane leading to Humphrey Head.

"We are thrilled that the Humphrey Head Outdoor Education Centre has had a stay of execution.

"Groups will be able to carry on using the centre but its future is by no means certain.

"Mere Mountains (who currently operates the centre) would like a long-term lease to secure the centre and now develop a longer-term plan in conjunction with Holker Estates.

"This could be a jewel in their eco crown, emphasising the group’s commitment to the local environment and community and enabling youngsters to experience the very best of nature that the Cartmel Peninsula has to offer.

"I would like to thank everyone who objected to the proposal or signed the petition.

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"Over 360 objections were received by SLDC.

"We are however aware that other applications to remove the historic centre could be made in future.

"I would really like to encourage Holker Estates to work with the centre to develop its full potential.

"Never has it been more important for youngsters to spend time in nature and away from screens.

"The centre provides peace, headspace and an appreciation of how important our natural environment is for our own health and mental well-being."