High Court judge rejects challenge to permission for 250 holiday lodge scheme

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council has successfully defended its decision to grant planning permission for a development of 250 holiday lodges and leisure facilities.

In Housiaux, R (On the Application Of) v Staffordshire Moorlands District Council [2017] EWHC 2157 a local resident sought to challenge the development on land at Moneystone Quarry.

However, His Honour Judge Pelling QC dismissed the claim on all counts. He also awarded the council costs of £5,000 and refused permission for Housiaux to appeal against his decision.

Cllr Stephen Ellis, chair of Staffordshire Moorlands’ Planning Applications Committee, said: "Planning applications can be contentious and the committee has to consider carefully the balance of factors before making decisions.

"I am pleased that Judge Pelling has agreed with the council's decision to grant consent for the Moneystone Quarry scheme and, particularly, that he made positive reference to the full and detailed report prepared by officers which clearly explained the issues for consideration.

"It is also gratifying that the Judge supported the way in which the committee reached its decision."

The council said the site had been specifically identified as a key opportunity for new leisure development in its Churnet Valley Masterplan.