2567
(a) change of use of the existing golf pavilion to a community oriented Health & Wellness Centre providing pilates, yoga and fitness facilities, indoor hamman style spa and therapy unit, reuse of the existing bar/café facilities, reuse of the existing changing and sanitary facilities together with all ancillary requirements within the existing structure and also, re-use of the existing effluent treatment system. (b) three new freestanding structures accommodating an outdoor sauna/spa with plunge-pool and changing booths. (c) three full size, external, padel courts. The existing parking facilities to be supplemented with secure cycle racks and EV charge points
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was refused because the commercial health and wellness use is not site-dependent on a rural location, would negatively impact the character and amenity of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and failed to demonstrate that the existing wastewater treatment system is adequate for the proposed intensity of use.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed use is not dependent on a rural location and would primarily serve urban residents, making it contrary to County Development Plan objectives that require such developments to be located within existing towns and villages.
- The introduction of new structures, particularly the padel courts and associated lighting, would result in the erosion of the rural character and visual amenities of a sensitive landscape designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a listed view.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the existing on-site wastewater treatment system complies with current EPA Code of Practice standards or has the capacity to serve the estimated peak visitor numbers, posing a potential threat to public health.