Go-ahead for glamping pods plan at the Secret Garden in Wisbech

One of the area’s most successful tourism sites is set to expand its offering further after being granted planning permission for seven glamping pods.

Steve (also known as Neil) and Lesley Pollington owners of The Secret Garden in Mile Tree Lane (a former winner in the Fenland Citizen Business Awards), applied for permission for a change of use for land north west of Hannath House and just before Christmas the couple got their wish, when planning officers approved the plans.

A design and access statement drawn up by Swann Edwards Architects in support of the proposals explained the plan was an extension of the existing tourism use at the Secret Garden.

It said there are camping and caravan uses to the rear of the site, and opposite the proposed site which are all part of the existing business.

The statement said: “The Secret Garden has seen increased business over recent years and, due to its ongoing success, is looking to expand its camping facilities to include glamping pods. This will increase the number of facilities on-site, thereby improving the business offering and enhancing the business as a whole.”

The seven pods will be arranged around an internal driveway and each will have its own parking space.

Access to the pods will be via the existing entrance to the site.

Wisbech Town Councillors supported the application when it came before them for comment and there were eight letters of support mostly from people living in Mile Treet Lane.

A planning officer’s report recommended the application for approval stating: “The proposal is considered acceptable and accords with the necessary policies of the Fenland Local Plan 2014. It represents minimal issues in terms of visual or residential amenity and is acceptable in respect of highway safety. It will also enable small economic growth within a rural area.”

The application was approved under officer’s delegated powers.