Occupants of chalets at Solent Breezes holiday park in Warsash who have been trying to end rules banning them from living there all year round have lost their case at appeal.
Chalets at Solent Breezes holiday park
Planning rules for the site mean the home owners can only live in their chalets between March 1 and October 31 of each year and at weekends during the winter.
Five residents were trying to get that quashed so they could live in their holiday chalets throughout the whole year, but a planning inspector has rejected their plea.
Residents said they were disappointed with the outcome of the case, but did not wish to make a formal statement.
Planning inspector Tim Wood made his decision in a report published yesterday (June 6) after considering evidence heard at the hearing on May 8 and a site visit that same day.
In his report Mr Wood said: “The proposals would result in the creation of full-time residences within the countryside and in an unsustainable location.”
He added: “Notwithstanding the minority of unrestricted properties, the strong impression of the character of Solent Breezes is of a holiday village, not of a regular housing estate.
“I accept that the external appearance of the chalets would not change if the appeals were allowed, but the creation of an unrestricted dwelling in the countryside would be contrary to the aims of policies.
“Furthermore, I accept that if the appeals were allowed this would make it very difficult for the council to resist similar proposals which would result in the erosion and loss of the essential character of this holiday village.
“There are no other matters which would justify a decision which is contrary to these aims. Therefore, it is concluded that the condition attached to each permission is necessary and reasonable in the circumstances of each case.”
Sean Woodward, leader of Fareham Borough Council said: “I’m absolutely delighted. It totally vindicates the council’s and the local residents’ case that Solent Breezes is a special area. It’s a holiday park and not a residential area.
“The decision has been made. If the chalets continue to be used all year round, the council will take enforcement action.’’