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Sanctuary attraction given green light
A multi-million pound nature reserve on the banks of the Ribble in Lancashire has been given the green light.
Lancashire Wildlife Trust wants to transform the site into a major tourist attraction, bringing in 250,000 visitors a year.
The plans will see a visitors' centre with a cafe, shop, offices and an education centre.
Footpaths, boardwalks and wildlife hides and a boat launch point will also be created on the 112-hectare site on the north side of the Ribble.
But serious concerns have been raised about the effect the development would have on the river and traffic problems.
Objectors contacted the county council complaining that the plans are inappropriate for the green belt and would cause a flood risk.
Canoers and kayakers have also raised concerns they will no longer be allowed to use the river.
Coun Peter Mullineaux, who represents Samlesbury and Walton ward on South Ribble Council, said: "A number of local residents are not particularly happy.
"People living directly across the river are going to be affected.
"There will be a lot more traffic from people coming into the site and this is something they've not had before."
A representative of the Tickled Trout Filling Station spoke against the application, claiming the shop could become a motorway service station.
And County Coun Tom Sharratt, who represents South Ribble Rural East, told the meeting: "It's inappropriate for a commercial development such as this to take place in a rural site."
The application already faced a setback after proposals to include 18 wind turbines at the former sand and gravel quarry were dropped after opposition.
But the remaining proposals have been recommended for approval, subject to the Wildlife Trust providing funding for bus waiting facilities on the A59 and access for pedestrians and cyclists to the site.
Jane Brunning, of the Save the Ribble campaign, said the group actively supported the application.
She said: "When the Wildlife Trust tried to buy the land we were very supportive because the alternative was building homes.
"The fact there are so many bird and insect species shows it is such a valuable resource.
"But the Wildlife Trust has got to make it pay and a visitor centre is the obvious way."
Ian Selby, of the trust, said: "The Lancashire Wildlife Trust is committed to protecting and enhancing the environment and are experts in conservation."
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Weather for Preston
Wednesday 08 February 2012
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